"I got so used to seeing Rafael Nadal suffer" - Uncle Toni sheds light on Spaniard's injury-prone career
Toni Nadal shared insights into Rafael Nadal's struggles with injuries, highlighting how the former World No. 1 endured significant challenges throughout his career. Plagued by recurring injuries across various parts of his body, Rafael faced extended breaks from the sport, particularly in the latter stages.
Nadal retired from professional tennis after Spain was ousted from the Davis Cup Finals by the Netherlands. In the twilight of his career, the Spaniard struggled to maintain his peak form, and his retirement felt inevitable.
Reflecting on this, Toni, his uncle and former coach, remarked in an interview with the ATP Tour that he had become accustomed to seeing Rafael "suffer." He admitted that the hardships Rafael faced during the final stages of his career came as no surprise, given his history of battling through injuries.
"Of course I saw him suffer. But I got so used to seeing him suffer so many times during his tennis life," Toni explained.
"Many times he had bad injuries, injuries that looked like they were going to impair him and even prevent him from playing anymore. Because I got so used to that, I wasn’t surprised to see him suffer a bit at the end. The truth is that, even seeing him suffer, I think Rafael can’t complain because life has treated him very well."
Persistent injuries, including chronic foot pain, called the Mueller-Weiss syndrome, a career-long challenge, plagued Rafael Nadal's illustrious career. He also faced severe knee tendinitis, a recurring issue that sidelined him multiple times. His wrist injuries forced withdrawals, while an abdominal tear disrupted key tournaments.
The Spaniard also battled back injuries and hip injuries that curtailed his final season. Despite these setbacks, Nadal’s resilience and ability to return to the sport set him apart as one of tennis' greatest icons.
"I feel very happy about everything that Rafael Nadal's achieved" - Spaniard's uncle Toni
Toni Nadal, reflecting on his nephew Rafael Nadal's extraordinary career, expressed immense happiness rather than pride. He highlighted the 22-time Grand Slam champion's incredible achievements on the court and the values he upheld throughout his journey.
"I feel very happy about everything that he’s achieved, obviously on court because of everything he won. But, above all, the most notable thing, which really pleases me as a relative, is seeing how a boy who had a dream of being a great tennis player did everything possible without losing his way."
For Toni, what stood out most was how Rafael earned widespread admiration, not just for his victories but for his character and sportsmanship.