Coco Gauff left in awe by Rafael Nadal’s training methods – Tennis Tonic

After Rafael Nadal’s surprising defeat in the opening round of the 2024 French Open, rising tennis star Coco Gauff has shared how she draws inspiration from the legendary Spaniard. Nadal, a 22-time Grand Slam champion, suffered a straight-sets loss to Alexander Zverev at Roland Garros, sparking speculation that this may be his final season of competition due to ongoing injuries.

Following her own victory in the first round of the French Open against Julia Avdeeva, Gauff opened up about her admiration for Nadal’s work ethic and intensity on the court. She described his practice sessions as unparalleled, noting that watching him train motivates her to approach both tennis and life with the same level of dedication.

Gauff, currently ranked world no.3, expressed her appreciation for Nadal’s unique personality and dominance in the sport, particularly at the French Open where he has clinched a record-breaking 14 titles. She praised his kindness and unintentional humor, highlighting the special aura he brings to the game.

As Gauff continues her journey at the French Open, she is set to face Tamara Zidansek in the second round, aiming to build on her impressive 26-8 win-loss record in 2024. Meanwhile, Nadal, currently ranked no.275, is looking ahead to Wimbledon after his early exit in Paris, with a 7-5 win-loss record for the season.

While Nadal’s future in tennis remains uncertain, his legacy and impact on players like Gauff serve as a reminder of his enduring influence on the sport. As the French Open unfolds, fans eagerly anticipate the next chapter in both Gauff and Nadal’s careers on the court.