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Rafael Nadal spoke to a packed press conference in Barcelona today explaining why he pulled out of the tournament where he is the 5 time defending champion. Nadal took the opportunity to dismiss rumours that he had planned to pull out of Barcelona if he did well in Monte Carlo. He emphasized that the decision was made to protect not only his immediate future but his long term playing career. “I don’t think that three weeks of tennis without stopping is the most adequate way to prepare myself.”
Rafa insisted that his issue with playing this week revolves around the over crowded clay court season which became much worse last year with the addition of the Madrid Masters which was moved from October. He did, however, confirm he intended to play next year and that he will be in Rome next week. “Next year, the conditions will be more favourable, with a week off after Barcelona. I will definitely be back next year, and the calendar will be organised in a manner that will also encourage other players to come.”
He also commented on how he felt his year had been so far and denied any real problem with his knees. “The last year was difficult, with a lot of problems. I started this year playing well, and apart from the small problem in Australia, I felt I was playing well enough to have chances to win at all of the tournaments I have entered. I needed the win in Monte Carlo. But with everything that has happened to me, to play for three consecutive weeks, taking into account that we are on clay and the matches tend to last a little longer, would be almost impossible…. I’m being as cautious as possible, I want to have as long a career as possible.”
“Yes, (the withdrawal) was a preventative measure. Luckily last week I played very well. I feel fine right now, but I have had many problems in this last year and can’t afford to take any risks if I want to be in my best possible condition on court. That’s my main objective.”
“I’m in perfect shape. I feel very good, but I don’t want a repeat of what happened last year. For my tennis to be at the right level, I have to be physically well and that’s my principal objective. I’m being as cautious as possible so that I can play the maximum amount possible.”
