Rafael Nadal will play his first match at the ATP Tour Finals in Turin against Taylor Fritz from 21:00.
The Spanish tennis player has a great opportunity to reach first place at the end of the season by winning the tournament.
He will fight with Stefanos Tsitsipas, who is in the “Red Group”, while the leader in the ATP list, Carlos Alcaraz, is not playing due to injury.
However, Nadal points out that his biggest rival is Novak Djokovic.
– My biggest rival is Novak Djokovic. After all, he is the one who is closest to me in the number of Grand Slams, with a total of 21. Of course, because of all those matches so far, because of our history. Of all the active players, the most dangerous rival for me is undoubtedly Novak – said Nadal.
The Spaniard admitted that his performance in indoor tournaments is not great, but adds that he has improved significantly in the past few years.
– I failed in the sense that I could have been a better indoor player. That’s the reality of this sport. I qualified for the ATP Tour Finals 17 times, but I wasn’t competitive at the level 17 times. I really don’t know how many times I’ve been in optimal condition to play this tournament. Historically, indoor tournaments are the worst for me, but the truth is that in recent years I have improved significantly on this surface as well – added Nadal.
Regardless, he says he’s ready for the challenge ahead.
“As far as I’m concerned, I’m well prepared. I play with the best in the world. Of course, it is nicer to get a few wins, but there is no time limit to reach good form. From the first day you play with the best”, concluded the Spanish tennis player.
