Rafael Nadal Sends Clear Message to Rivals As He Goes Through “Complicated” Rehab From Injury

Rafael Nadal is recovering from a foot injury which ruled him out the US Open. Rafael Nadal is “determined” to get back fighting for Grand Slam titles after a season plagued by injury. Nadal, 35, is currently undergoing rehab for a foot problem which forced the 20-time Grand Slam champion to miss Wimbledon, the Olympics and the US Open.

He has been receiving treatment in Barcelona and is likely to be off the court for several weeks. However, the tennis legend has sent a clear message to his rivals that despite the setback, he is no intention of retiring.

When asked about his current physical condition, Nadal told Punto de Break: “I’ve been better, but I’m fine. A little sore from the foot. It is a time that is a bit complicated on a personal and professional level.

“Honestly, with the illusion of improving and facing a process that is going to be difficult and painful at some point, but that I have to go through to get back in a position to fight for what I want. I am determined to do it.“

His pledge comes in the same week the former world no 1 dropped out of the top five in the ATP rankings, with Russian player Andrey Rublev pushing him into sixth place.

Novak Djokovic comfortably retains top spot, although his US Open final defeat to Daniil Medvedev does mean Nadal, and Roger Federer, remained tied with the Serbian for the record number of Grand Slam wins.