Rafa Nadal Updates on Health Ahead of Roland Garros After Rome Run
Spanish tennis star Rafa Nadal clarified that his run at the Masters 1,000 in Rome did not come with a fresh injury during the qualifying match against Canadian Denis Shapovalov. He acknowledged a persistent problem with his left foot that has proven troublesome in recent weeks and said he would monitor his condition over the coming days as he heads toward Roland Garros. He explained,
I felt a lot of pain in my foot around the middle of the second set. I am not carrying a new injury, I am dealing with an ongoing issue. I do not want to take anything away from Shapovalov; he played well. Today his reputation stands for itself, but it was not possible for me to compete as I would have liked.
The 10-time Rome champion spoke with the press immediately after advancing to the round of 16, mirroring the moment he reached the same stage against David Goffin at last week’s Mutua Madrid Open. He added,
We will see how things unfold in the next few days and weeks. It is not an easy time for me.
Nadal revisited the chronic issue with his left foot that he had already mentioned in Madrid, a problem that is seemingly getting more demanding as the season unfolds. The Spaniard, based in Manacor, had returned to the capital after a six-week layoff caused by a broken rib. His aim has been to resurrect his peak form in time for Roland Garros. He emphasized that he plays because it brings him joy, but the pain often diminishes that happiness. He also noted he relies on pain management to stay on court and that continuing this way is not sustainable for long. He concluded with a hopeful note, wishing to be in strong shape and confident about stepping onto the court when action resumes.