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The big question is should Nadal’s team have done more to ensure their man was fit and healthy for the Australian Open to really push for the history breaking fourth consecutive title? The answer is yes.
Last night a devastated Rafael Nadal forced himself to limp across the line out of respect to David Ferrer after injuring his hamstring in the opening moments of the game. Nadal acknowledged that he would just have to cope with the fact that injuries are more likely to happen when you’ve been unwell.
When Nadal first became unwell in Doha his team should have stopped him from playing doubles and should have firmly encouraged him to sit the singles out knowing that injuries are a significantly higher risk when you’re unwell. They should have been advised that it would take him some time to recover to full energy even if the fever had disappeared. Quite simply they should have guided him better.
We all know Nadal doesn’t know when to stop. Just ask his knees. I believe this is the same situation. His physio, Rafael Maymo, should have told him when to stop when she started having problems with his knees. Just because he can win doesn’t mean he should keep playing sometimes.
This is just another case of Team Nadal not quite directing their man down the right path that will maintain his health – both mental and physical – and promote the longevity of his career.
