(Reuters) – World number three Rafa Nadal says he is fully fit and confident about his preparations as he begins his clack court season at the Monte Carlo Masters, with one eye on the pursuit of the 14th French Open crown.
The Spaniard has not played a competitive game since his loss in Australia’s final eight to Stefanos Tsitsipas, after missing a series of tournaments due to a back injury sustained in Melbourne.
Chasing a record-breaking 12th title in Monte Carlo, Nadal has received an opening sub-round and will open his campaign in the second round against either Federico Delbonis or Adrian Mannarino.
“An important part of the season has arrived for me,” Nadal, 34, told a news conference yesterday.
“I think I’ve done the right job to be ready. I am happy the way I play, for the moment my body is in good shape.
“I’m confident. I practice well the couple of days here in Monaco before the tournament starts. So I feel ready. ”
The 20-time Grand Slam champion is not the only member of the Nadal family to make the trip to Monte Carlo this week, with his uncle and former coach Toni traveling to the Principality as a new team member coaching Canadian Felix Auger-Aliassime.
“He knows a lot about this sport,” said Rafa. “I’m sure it will be an important help to Felix.”
Toni, 60, decided to resign as Rafa’s coach in 2017 and focus on running the Rafa Nadal Academy in Mallorca.
Prior to the 2021 season, Auger-Aliassime spent more than a week training at the academy and approached Toni to join his team.
“I’m happy for Felix. I’m happy for myself too, ”said Nadal. “I’m happy to see my uncle here, to see him here, to spend time with him here on the Tour again. That is a positive thing. ”