Nadal’s clay game is coming together just in time for the French Open. ‘Exciting developments.’

Rafael Nadal’s Clay-Court Form Slowly Rounding Into Shape Ahead of French Open

ROME (AP) — Rafael Nadal, the 22-time Grand Slam champion, is slowly finding his form on the clay courts as he prepares for what could be his final French Open appearance. Despite not reaching his nearly invincible level of play from the past two decades, Nadal is feeling optimistic about his game.

After missing most of 2023 due to a hip injury that required surgery, the 37-year-old Spaniard has only played nine matches this year. However, he showed promise at the Madrid Open last week, winning three matches before falling to 31st-ranked Jiri Lehecka in the fourth round.

Nadal expressed his satisfaction with his progress, stating, “The line is going up, without a doubt. Happy to be today where I am because one month ago for me was almost impossible to think that I will be able to play in Barcelona, then in Madrid, and now being here in Rome.”

As Nadal gears up for his final French Open, where he is a record 14-time champion, he is focused on the Italian Open as his last big warmup tournament before the clay-court Grand Slam begins on May 26. His opening match in Rome is set for Thursday against Belgian qualifier Zizou Bergs.

Meanwhile, top-ranked Novak Djokovic is also back in Rome after a month out, aiming to defend his French Open title. Despite not playing for nearly a month and being without a title this year, Djokovic remains optimistic about his chances.

Both Nadal and Djokovic are looking to peak at Roland Garros in Paris, with Nadal reflecting on his memorable victories at the Italian Open and Djokovic emphasizing his readiness for the upcoming challenges. Tennis fans are eagerly anticipating the showdown between these two legends on the clay courts.