Rafael Nadal’s Madrid Open campaign ended in a straight-sets defeat to Jiri Lehecka, but the Spaniard left the tournament feeling optimistic about his fitness and plans to compete in Rome before the French Open.
Despite the loss, Nadal expressed satisfaction with his progress since returning from injury. “It was a positive week in every way,” he said. “I was able to play four matches, a couple of tough matches. So very positive, winning three matches, playing four matches at the high level of tennis.”
Nadal’s initial pessimism about his physical condition has dissipated, and he is now confident in his ability to compete. “I leave here with very positive energy,” he said.
The 37-year-old Nadal is in his final year on tour and is determined to make the most of his remaining tournaments. He had already bid farewell to Barcelona, where he lost in the second round, and is eager to experience the emotional atmosphere of Rome, where he has won 10 titles.
“Rome is another very special tournament in my career,” he said. “I dreamed to play all these tournaments that I had success one more time. I missed Monte Carlo unfortunately, that is one of the most special for me, but Rome is one of these ones that I enjoyed a lot playing there.”
In Madrid, Nadal defeated Darwin Blanch, Alex de Minaur, and Pedro Cachin before falling to Lehecka. He is now focused on preparing for Rome, which begins on May 8, and ultimately the French Open, which starts on May 26.
“I want to play well there (in Rome),” he said. “I want to be competitive. I want to give myself a chance to play good tennis, and I’m gonna keep working hard to try to make that happen.”
Nadal’s goal is to perform well at Roland Garros, where he has won a record 14 titles. He is determined to make the most of his final season and leave a lasting legacy on the sport.
