As has become the norm for Rafa Nadal and his girlfriend of nearly 5 years, Xisca Perello, they were greeted by Spanish media as they arrived at the airport in Palma de Mallorca to fly to Monte Carlo ahead of the clay court tournament where Rafa is the 5 time defending champion. It is the first time Rafa and Xisca have been seen together for some time, and the first time since Rafa starred in Shakira’s steamy Gypsy video. They were also in the company of Rafa’s entourage including his physio Rafael Maymo.
Xisca frequently attends the Monte Carlo tournament to support Rafa.
Rafa says he’s feeling confident ahead of the clay court season even though its been almost a year since he last won a tournament. He last won in Rome last year. He is the defending champion at the next 3 tournaments; Monte Carlo, Barcelona and Rome.
“I am playing well. I had very good matches in these two tournaments in Miami and Indian Wells. I think I am ready to play my best. I’m just going to try my best in Monte Carlo now. Physically, I’m on good form. I no longer worry about my knee. I’m not scared of running hard. I think that my forehand is back to doing damage.”
Rafa will be hoping his sore knee that bothered him in Miami stays away as he desperately sees to regain his Roland Garros and Wimbledon titles.
