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The 2022 French Open is right around the corner and Rafael Nadal, the most decorated player in the history of the tournament, will return to Paris to reclaim his crown. The Spaniard is seeking a record-extending 22nd Grand Slam along with a 14th title at Roland Garros.
However, Nadal's form and fitness are cause for concern heading into the tournament. After sustaining a rib injury during the Indian Wells Open, the Spaniard was sidelined for a few weeks. He missed a few tournaments that he usually plays during the clay season in the shape of the Monte-Carlo Masters and the Barcelona Open.
Nadal returned to action at the Madrid Open. He started off with a win over Miomir Kecmanovic and saved a few match points in his victory over David Goffin. The former World No. 1 lost to teen sensation and eventual champion Carlos Alcaraz in the quarterfinals.
Nadal then moved on to the Italian Open, where he was the defending champion. After a first-round bye, he commenced his title defense with a commanding 6-3, 6-1 win over John Isner in the second round. The Spaniard was up against Denis Shapovalov in the third round.
The two had contested a five-set thriller at the Australian Open earlier in the year, which went the way of the 35-year-old. Nadal took the opening set once again, but Shapovalov was able to stage a comeback, thanks in part to the Spaniard's foot injury. The Canadian ended up winning 1-6, 7-5, 6-2.
The injury raised doubts regarding Nadal's participation at the French Open, but the 21-time Grand Slam champion posted on social media that he is, indeed, on his way to Paris.
"Rafa Nadal Academy in Manacor today.. See you on Wednesday, Paris," Nadal captioned his Instagram post.
Rafael Nadal remains a title contender at the French Open, despite his injury
While Rafael Nadal might not be at his best physically, it's unwise to count him out completely. No other player in the history of the sport has asserted his dominance in a tournament quite like the Spaniard has at Roland Garros.
Nadal heads into the French Open this year without a title on clay. However, with 13 titles and an insane 105-3 record in Paris, he has to be considered a contender for the top prize.
It will certainly be a great challenge for the King of Clay to win the French Open with his current injury concerns, but he has defied the odds in the past and could well do so again.
Also Check Out: Nadal French Open Titles
What is the foot injury that has troubled Rafael Nadal over the years? Check here
