Currently facing Francisco Cerundolo in his Wimbledon first round match at Centre Court, Rafael Nadal was on the receiving end of some special praise from Serena Williams. Speaking during a Wimbledon press conference, she said, "He's done a lot in 2022. He's been busy. I've always been a Rafa fan. I named my dog after him. He's so cute. I miss the little guy. So obviously I'm always rooting for Rafa. So yes, he's been really inspiring in everything that he's done this year, and he has a lot more to do”.
Here is the video of Williams' comments on Nadal:
Nadal is playing for the first time in Wimbledon since 2019. The Spaniard has had an excellent start to 2022 and enters into the event with a 30-3 season record. He also has four tour-level titles in tow.
Speaking during his pre-match press conference, "In general terms it has been an amazing, positive six months in terms of tennis results".
{{/usCountry}}Speaking during his pre-match press conference, "In general terms it has been an amazing, positive six months in terms of tennis results".
{{/usCountry}}"I enjoy it because it has been unexpected. But now is the moment to keep going, if I am able to be better with my body. The main thing for me is to keep enjoying my daily work and my day-by-day playing tennis".
Regarding his fitness issues, he also updated fans that he is in good shape for the competition. "Since the last two weeks, I didn't had one of these terrible days that I can't move at all,'' he said.
Nadal also hasn't played any grass court events in the build-up to Wimbledon. But he will be aiming to challenge for the crown in his 15th appearance at the major, having won in 2008 and 2010.