Around the Big Apple, Rafael Nadal spoke about Novak Djokovic with a mix of respect and empathy. The Spaniard noted that Djokovic felt adrift because the absence of the world’s top player at the US Open was a disappointment for many fans and for the sport itself. Injury and circumstance have a way of shaping the draw, Nadal acknowledged, but he also stressed that tennis endures beyond any single star and carries on with or without its biggest names.
Nadal explained that the rules surrounding the US Open had prevented Djokovic from competing at this event. He expressed sorrow for the situation, underscoring that it is always sad when one of the best players cannot participate due to conditions beyond a player’s control. The veteran tennis star remarked at a press conference in New York, the day before the tournament began, that this absence would be felt by fans, the tournament, and the circuit alike.
He added that a sport can thrive even when a legendary rival is sidelined. For the fans who eagerly anticipate seeing the sport’s elite, every match carries significance, the field loses nothing by rallying around the broader competition, and the sport itself remains larger than any single competitor.
Nadal also noted Djokovic’s impact over the last two decades and shared his personal sympathy for the player. He reflected that he had endured his own share of losses and setbacks but stressed that the tour moves forward, with or without any individual champion. The sentiment, he said, is not an endorsement of misfortune but a recognition of the sport’s resilience and continuity.
Returning to New York, Nadal stepped back into a city with a strong memory of his past successes. He described the tournament as a highlight of his career, one he had conquered on four occasions, and he spoke with enthusiasm about resuming competition at a high level after recent rounds as well as the challenges that come with physical wear and tear.
He confirmed that his abdominal issue, which flared at Wimbledon, remains a factor to monitor. The area still requires careful management and a gradual approach to serving. Nadal affirmed that a scar can complicate the early stages of rehabilitation, underscoring the need for patience and precaution until full strength returns. Nevertheless, he remained hopeful about being ready for upcoming tasks and expressed confidence in his regimen and progress.
In describing his overall form, Nadal cited the rigors of the tour as a constant backdrop. He noted that his training in recent days has been steady, with daily practice and match play spread across several days. This rhythm, he said, helps him maintain a high tempo and sharpen his match readiness as he builds toward the next events on his schedule.
Looking ahead, Nadal anticipated participating in a renowned exhibition that would bring together a beloved rival for a much-anticipated moment of reunion. He spoke about the importance of Roger Federer’s return to the court and of the joy that comes with seeing a long-time rival still connected to the sport. The Spaniard wished Federer health and happiness above all and hinted that whatever the future holds, it should be welcomed with gratitude for the contributions Federer has made to tennis. If health and joy align, a renewed competition would be a welcome gift to fans; if not, Nadal suggested, appreciation for what Federer has already given the sport would be the proper salute.
He concluded with a hopeful note about the longevity of Federer’s presence in the game and his own desire to share more time on court with him at events like the Laver Cup, where two all-time greats could fuse their experiences in a celebratory return. Nadal expressed genuine optimism about continuing a long career alongside Federer, and he looked forward to those opportunities with a sense of anticipation and mutual respect.
Nadal’s recent return to Cincinnati offered another test of his form. He faced a tough hurdle in Borna Coric, a rising talent who displayed sharp decision-making and consistent execution on the day, ultimately claiming the win as Coric rode strong play to a notable victory during the tournament. The match showcased Nadal’s enduring competitive spirit and his ability to push through difficulty in high-stakes settings, underscoring the ongoing drama of a season that remains rich in storylines and competition for fans across North America.