ATP Madrid – Nadal the survivor: “Real inspired me” – Eurosport FR

His scarred face left no room for doubt. When he left the court on Thursday, Rafael Nadal could not hide from the television cameras his great weariness after more than three hours of tense effort and an outcome as crazy as it was liberating against David Goffin. And for good reason, as he had recalled after his victorious comeback the day before, the Mallorcan had hardly been able to prepare before the tournament, having just returned from his rib injury. He was also unable to maintain the same intensity from the first to the last point. But he never lost sight of his goal: victory. Even with his back to the wall when he had to save four match points in the decisive tie-break. Nadal has the fight in his blood, he never gives up. But in these precise circumstances, deprived of the rhythm of the competition for six weeks, he needed an extra soul. And he found it in the emotions experienced the night before at the Santiago-Bernabeu stadium. “This Champions League semi-final second leg (between Real Madrid and Manchester City, editor’s note) was an unforgettable evening. Real Madrid’s state of mind was incredible. And that was an inspiration for me. in a way. It reminded me of the way I fought throughout my career”, confided the one who is also a fervent Merengue supporter. ATP Madrid In control, heckled and then miraculously, Nadal knew everything against Goffin: the summary37 MINUTES AGOGoffin believed it but Nadal saved four match points: relive the fiery tie-break I’m not totally happy because I should have won in two setsEven when everything seems lost, everything is still possible . That could be the moral of this story. Except that Nadal would have spared himself such chills. Because unlike Real who was eliminated for 90 minutes before reversing the trend, the Majorcan had a good grasp of his subject and almost saw the match escape him. Satisfied to have given himself a chance to continue the tournament, he knows that recovery will be a challenge – he has spent more than five hours on court in two days – especially after so long without playing and that he could have approaching the quarter-finals fresher.”Honestly, it was a very tough game. David played at a very high level. And at the same time, I’m not totally happy, because I think I should have won in two sets, without a doubt. It’s a victory and 3:10 on the court that helps me improve physically. Saving match points gives me confidence to continue on this path. I need matches and days like this to get back into great shape as soon as possible”, he nevertheless conceded. In the meantime, Nadal is 22 wins for a defeat this season. And this virtuous circle maintains his confidence, regardless of the circumstances and the scenario of the matches. As long as the beast is not finished, it remains dangerous. And by force, the “Bull of Manacor” could feel invincible… if the physique follows, of course.ATP MadridGoffin believed in it but Nadal saved four match points: relive the fiery tie-break2 HOURS AGOATP MadridAu edge of the abyss, Nadal got away (again)3 HOURS AGO