Rafael Nadal ‘never complains about anything’, says Jannik Sinner in heartwarming comments about legend

Rafael Nadal’s mentality, his fighting spirit and the fact that he “never complains about anything” are just some of the Spaniard’s special attributes that Jannik Sinner admires.

Tennis legend Nadal is in the final year of his illustrious career as the 37-year-old has confirmed he will retire at the end of the 2024 season.

After turning professional in 2001, Nadal made his breakthrough three years later when he won his maiden title, but it was in 2005 when he made the world sit up and take note of his talent as he won the French Open just a few days after turning 19.

He has gone on to win another 21 Grand Slams, won a Career Grand Slam, won gold at the Olympics and spent more than 200 weeks at No 1 in the ATP Rankings, among other things.

With the sun now setting on his wonderful career, every tournament he plays is part of a farewell tour and it is no different at this week’s Madrid Open where Sinner is the top seed. Nadal remains alive at the ATP Masters 1000 event after beating Alex de Minaur in the second round.

READ MORE: Rafael Nadal isn’t playing vintage tennis – but his magic aura is still unmatchable

Sinner was asked after his win over Lorenzo Sonego how the 22-time Grand Slam winner has inspired him and replied: “First of all, Rafa has given so much to the sport.

“A different mentality, how to approach practice sessions, how to approach matches, how to come out from difficult situations, and I’m always very happy to see him.

“You know, it’s just nice, like here obviously the momentum is a little bit different than it used to be. He’s a father now, he has the family with him.

“I just wish him all the best, because, you know, hopefully the body still keeps going for as long as possible. I’m sure he will do whatever it takes.

“You can see that intensity when he practices and when he plays, it’s still very high. To beat him on clay, it’s one of the toughest if not the toughest challenge you have in our sport.

“You know, that’s it. For me, he has always been a big inspiration, because the fighting spirit he had throughout the whole career until now and never complaining about anything, I think that’s something really special.

“So, you know, let’s see if it’s the last match. If it’s not, nobody knows. It’s only he and his body will know. I cannot talk more, because I don’t know more (smiling).”