Rafael Nadal's 2 biggest opponents: Himself and Father Time

Rafael Nadal is no longer the player that he once was. Perhaps, every sportsperson goes through this period in life when they are stuck between their past achievements and the present reality. However, in Nadal's case, the Spaniard is trying to reach his former heights but his body is just not allowing it.

After numerous injuries and major surgeries, Rafael Nadal is back on the tennis court, trying to get back to his best form, which propelled him to 22 Grand Slam titles. This time, however, it feels like a step too far for the 37-year-old.

In both the tournaments that Nadal has competed so far in 2024, he has failed at the first big hurdle. The Spanish star lost to Australian Jordan Thompson at the quarterfinal stage in Brisbane, while losing to another Aussie, Alex de Minaur in Barcelona. During both matches, Thompson and De Minaur used similar tactics to defeat Nadal, as they stretched the game using drop shots to gain an advantage over the Spaniard.

Throughout his illustrious career, Rafael Nadal has tormented his opponents by winning long rallies. The Spanish star built his game by dominating from the baseline and tiring his opponents during points, while his fast movements allowed him to reach all parts of the court. However, the switch has now flipped and it's the Spaniard who is struggling during longer exchanges.

Injuries and age mean that Rafael Nadal is no longer the player who used to cover the court at the speed of light. The prime example of this was during Nadal's clash at the Barcelona Open against Alex de Minaur. The Australian used the drop shot to great effect to tire the Spaniard on his way to a straight-sets win. Over the years, Rafael Nadal deployed this tactic against his opponents, especially on clay, but on this occasion, he was on the receiving end of it.

This defeat at the hands of De Minaur, on his beloved clay surface, is a further indication of Nadal trying to get back to the level that he cannot reach anymore. The Spaniard is fighting a battle between his mind and body as he tries to get back to his best, but his body just doesn't seem to allow him to do so.

One can only wonder what goes on inside the head of Rafael Nadal when he sees those drop shots, knowing he can't make them. The Spaniard who achieved unprecedented success on clay knows that he can't do the same anymore with the same body which made him invincible. Nadal has admitted that he has played with pain throughout his career but still managed to win Major titles, however, now it is just pain as he struggles to match the highs of his iconic career.

Rafael Nadal ready to "die" for French Open glory in 2024

Rafael Nadal revealed in December 2023 that he considered retirement before his hip surgery last year, but decided to keep playing as he wants to end on a positive note. However, the 37-year-old will know in the back of his mind that another injury might mean the end of his career. With his opponents now picking up on his weakness, it is tough to see Rafael Nadal succeed in his comeback trail. With the French Open his only realistic chance at success, the 22-time Grand Slam champion will hope he can give one last crack at winning the Roland Garros.

Speaking to the media after his exit from the Barcelona Open, Rafael Nadal admitted that he did not take any risks in Barcelona and he is taking his progress step by step. However, he further added that he would be ready to "die" on the court at the French Open if that was God's wish.

"It wasn't today that I had to leave everything and die, in Paris, let it be what God wants. There I hope to be competitive and there is the moment," Nadal said.

With this French Open likely to be his last, the tennis world will be hopeful that the Spaniard puts on a show for them. However, with his struggling body and poor form, it is tough to make a case for Nadal. But one thing is for certain, the Spanish star will not go out without a fight.