'The game is better with him,' Jimmy Connors hails Rafael Nadal’s impact as the Spaniard approaches closer to retirement

Originally posted on FirstSportz | By Laxman Naren | Last updated 5/8/24

Tennis legend Jimmy Connors heaped praise on the Spanish Maestro Rafael Nadal’s influence in tennis. With 2024 possibly being the last year for the Spaniard, Connors revealed what the sport would be like if the 22-time Singles Grand Slam champion left.

Due to recurring injuries, Nadal had hinted that 2024 would be his last year on tour. Playing in select tournaments, the Spaniard is looking to give a proper finish to his career. Connors, himself a former World No.1 recognized the irreplaceable quality that Nadal brought to the sport, which would be heavily missed.

Look, the game is better with him. He's so much better. It creates so many topics for discussion. Whether it's saying that he's too old, that he's not what he used to be. The way he approached his matches and the way he presented himself on the pitch, he was a businessman. Jimmy Connors on his podcast Advantage Connors

Furthermore, the American also praised Nadal for his never-give-up attitude to fight for every ball hit on the court. Jimmy Connors specifically highlighted this attitude of Nadal, which will be missed. Till now, Nadal has won 22 Grand Slams, second most by any man in the sport.

Even now, Nadal has fought back through all the injury setbacks to return to court. Even though his time in the sport is limited, the Spaniard aims to give his career a proper finish.

Rafael Nadal claimed to have increased his level for the Italian Open

Rafael Nadal has had all eyes on him since he made his second attempt at a comeback at the Barcelona Open. Unfortunately, Nadal lost there but soon made a healthy comeback in the Madrid Open.

Even though he lost before the quarterfinals, the Spaniard is grateful to have played two tournaments in a row as he gears up for the Rome Open. In a recent interaction with the reporters, the 37-year-old revealed that he will increase his level and feeling in Rome to try to have a more successful run.

It's a good moment, even if the results are not what they used to be. But I am increasing my feelings, my level. Let's see. Yeah, I want to keep going. Rafael Nadal said

Rafa Nadal says when he talks about retirement, it’s not because he’s unhappy playing tennis or doesn’t feel competitive, it’s because of his body

“What do you think your emotions are going to be at Roland Garros this year? I imagine it will be different from all the past… pic.twitter.com/5riyKRTWBd
— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) May 8, 2024

At the Madrid Open, fans witnessed Nadal take his tennis a step further. He beat some top ATP players in the mix but lost to Jiri Lehecka just before the quarterfinals. With an increase in level, Nadal also has a good chance to make a deep run.

This article first appeared on FirstSportz and was syndicated with permission.

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