It is true that Federer has not played in a while, but Djokovic and Nadal are still there, they are showing it" - Pablo Carreño Busta on the Big 3's longevity

During a press conference at the Barcelona Open, Pablo Carreño Busta hailed Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic for their longevity.

When asked about the emergence of exciting and young talents in the sport, Carreño Busta pointed out how the likes of Djokovic and Nadal continue to be threats at every tournament they play. According to the Spaniard, this is not the case with Roger Federer, who has spent most of the last couple of years recovering from knee problems.

"It's true that Federer hasn't played in a while, but Djokovic and Nadal are still there, they're showing it. Time passes and we are seeing some renewal, I have also turned 30, it is normal for new people like Alcaraz, Korda, Musetti or Sinner to come looking for their prominence and they want to be up there, so it will not be easy," Carreño Busta said.

Pablo Carreño Busta also pointed out how the experience he's gained with age has helped him against younger players on the tour. However, he noted that one of the drawbacks was longer recovery periods after matches.

"In my case, I now have the advantage of having experience, although physically they recover much better. Getting back to the top 10 will depend on the level you can offer," Carreño Busta said.

"It is clear that the loss of Rafael Nadal is important, very bad news" - Pablo Carreño Busta

Rafael Nadal in action at Barcelona in 2021

21-time Grand Slam champion Rafael Nadal is yet to pencil in his return date as the Spaniard is still recovering from a rib injury he picked up in the semifinal of Indian Wells against Carlos Alcaraz.

The 35-year-old was ruled out for competition for 4-6 weeks due to the injury, which meant that the 21-time Grand Slam champion had to skip Monte-Carlo Masters and the Barcelona Open as well.

Pablo Carreño Busta believes the Spaniard's presence will be sorely missed by fellow players and the fans.

"It's a very competitive tournament, there are still great players. It is true that they signed up between 12-13 top20 and then some have been lowered, but the Godó is always a very strong tournament. It is clear that the loss of Rafa Nadal is important, very bad news, although it relieves us a little because the picture opens a little more, although there are Alcaraz, Tsitsipas or Ruud," Carreño Busta said.

Rafael Nadal has won the tournament a whopping 12 times and views the event as a major part of his preparations for the French Open every year.