Rafael Nadal is focusing on fitness as he gets ready for the Cincinnati Masters in Cincinnati while tempering expectations.
The third-ranked player in the world, who was forced to withdraw from his Wimbledon semifinal against Nick Kyrgios due to an abdominal muscle injury, is seeded second in the American Midwest behind Daniil Medvedev.
As a result of Novak Djokovic’s absence from the US Open warmup due to his refusal to receive a Covid-19 immunization, the 36-year-old Spaniard faces a less challenging opponent.
For the first time since January 2020, Nadal might regain the top ranking place, which would give him the top seed at the US Open, which begins on August 29.
If he wins the Cincinnati championship and Medvedev is unable to advance past the quarterfinals, it may happen.
But for Nadal, the most important thing is to stay healthy and let the outcomes happen as they may.
The most important thing, according to Nadal, is maintaining good health.
“I don’t intend to reclaim the top spot.
“If that occurs because I play exceptionally well, then having that opportunity would mean a lot.”
The 2013 Cincinnati Champion stated that his objective for the remainder of the season is to “keep healthy and play where I want to play.”
I won’t play anymore than I believe is healthy for my body.
The Spaniard acknowledged that his playing schedule might need to be modified given the impending arrival of a child.
“I’m pleased to be here, and if I ever get back to number one, I’ll be extremely happy,” he said.
Since coming to Cincinnati in the middle of the week, Nadal has been putting in a grueling training routine. He admitted that his injury still hurts when he serves.
But he added that every comeback has challenges.
“You can’t expect to perform at a phenomenal level right away. To win the first game, you must be humble and utilize your resources, Nadal stated.
“After a few victories, things shift. I don’t always feel good when I’m on the court. You must acknowledge that initially, things will be challenging.
