"Wouldn't be surprised if he started to relax" - Rafael Nadal's perspective has changed since fatherhood and injuries, believes Chris Evert

Former tennis player Chris Evert feels that Rafael Nadal might start to relax in between tournaments on tour more often in the future considering the injuries and family responsibilities the Spaniard has to look after now.

Nadal last played at the 2023 Australian Open, where he picked up a hip injury during his second-round clash against Mackenzie McDonald. The injury has forced him out of action ever since.

The 22-time Grand Slam champion became a father for the first time last year in October. The player himself has previously revealed that it has been difficult for him to leave his family for tournaments following the birth of his child.

With rising concerns for Nadal, Evert believes that the Spaniard will relax more often on tour from now on to focus on his family.

"In the next few years, I think just because of the injuries and having a family, I wouldn't be surprised if he started to relax," she said in a conversation with Eurosport.

She also maintained that the 36-year-old currently has a different approach towards the sport now that he has embraced fatherhood.

"I think so. I think that now that he is a father, he has a different perspective and has something to go after tennis," added the 18-time Grand Slam champion.

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"His body has so much wear and tear" - Chris Evert on Rafael Nadal's injuries of late

2023 Australian Open - Day 3

Chris Evert also pointed out that there has been so much "wear and tear" on Rafael Nadal's body in the past that every simple injury the Spaniard suffers going forward will escalate to something serious.

While critical injuries are prone to occur for the former World No. 1, Evert also opined that the frequency of such damage could increase in the future.

"His body has so much wear and tear that now a simple injury is not going to be simple anymore and they are going to come more frequently," observed Evert.

She also highlighted that the Spaniard's demanding playing style has taken a toll on his body, making it more and more fragile over the years.

"That's kind of a telltale sign that your body may be more fragile, maybe breaking down a bit. Totally understandable with his play style and I don't mean that in a negative way. But things are proven with facts. I mean, he's been injured ," she stated.

Rafael Nadal is currently on the road to recovery and has withdrawn from the upcoming Indian Wells Masters. His biggest goal is to get ready for the clay-court season, particularly the French Open, which is set to commence on May 28.