Rafael Nadal would return to the top of the rankings and win a record-tying 23rd Grand Slam singles championship if he wins this year’s US Open.
If Nadal wins in Flushing Meadows for the sixth time in his career. He would overtake Daniil Medvedev and Alexander Zverev to become the third-ranked player in the world.
If Nadal is successful in maintaining his position for the remainder of the season, he might break the record for the oldest year-end world number one at the age of 36. And in doing so, the Spaniard would surpass a mark presently held by opponent Novak Djokovic, who finished the year as the world’s top player at the age of 34.
Rafael Nadal disappointment at Cincinnati Open
At the Cincinnati Open, his first match after missing Wimbledon due to an abdominal tear, Nadal did have an opportunity to reclaim the top spot in the rankings. However, he was eliminated in the first round after falling to Borna Coric in his comeback match 7-6(9) 4-6 6-3.
Nadal nonetheless spoke out about the significance of returning to the top of the rankings prior to that match. Nadal’s US Open preparations have taken a hit as a result of the round-of-32 loss after he spent six weeks recovering from the abdominal muscle injury.
Also read: Cincinnati Open faces three tennis superstars receiving a big blow
Rafael Nadal on upcoming US Open
“It means a lot to me to have that opportunity,” he said.
“Something that I didn’t expect could happen again. I am going to put all my efforts into every single event I play.” Nadal’s comment seems to have jolted his fans as social media seems to embrace his return in a better form.
“It is something that doesn’t matter if I have the chance to be No. 1. But I am happy to be in this position and if it happens, I will be very happy.
“You need to know that when you come back after a while that things aren’t going to be perfect. You can’t expect to play at an amazing level from the beginning.
“Knowing that you need to be humble enough to fight with the tools that you have at the beginning to win the first match. Then when you win a match or two matches things change and you start to feel competitive again.”
Nadal trains in Cincinnati for the US Open despite his loss
On the court, the 36-year-old can be seen working hard while perfecting his footwork and playing long double backhands and forehands. Additionally, he was seen making a couple slice shots.
He was defeated by Borna Coric in his opening encounter, which resulted in an early exit for him in Cincinnati. Additionally, it prevented the Spaniard from regaining the top spot in the world before the New York Major.
Rafael Nadal expressed his gratitude to the Cincinnati Open’s organisers and his regret at being forced to leave the tournament early. Borna Coric received praise from him as well for fighting valiantly on the court.
Also read: Novak Djokovic now set to play in US Open after USA confirms Covid rule changes
