Tennis Today: Rafael Nadal reveals ‘perfect’ Wimbledon plans as Serena Williams makes a comeback of sorts

Shahida Jacobs 21 Jun 2019 11:29 AM

In Tennis Today, Rafael Nadal has confirmed his Wimbledon preparations while Serena Williams is back in training as well.

What’s on the site
Andy Murray made his long-awaited return at Queen’s Club on Thursday, but Kevin Palmer says time will tell whether this was the beginning of something new or the final chorus of his glorious symphony.

Nick Kyrgios also stole the headlines on Thursday as he accused an official of “rigging his game” and also called himself “lazy”.

The controversial Australian also let rip during the post-match press conference describing officials as “idiot umpires” and some fans “idiots in the crowd”.

Before it all kicked off at Queen’s, Novak Djokovic was asked about Kyrgios’ criticism towards him and the world No 1’s reply was “I don’t think he’s a bad guy, but I’m not losing sleep over criticism”.

It’s yet more bad news for Juan Martin del Potro as the Argentine requires surgery after his latest injury.

What’s in the news
Rafael Nadal has confirmed he has found “the perfect way to warm up for Wimbledon”, reports Reuters.

The 18-time Grand Slam winner will play in the Aspall Tennis Classic in Hurlingham.

The Sun says Nicolas Mahut “could face a hefty fine after accidentally smashing a ball-girl in the face with a wayward serve”.

Roger Federer also hit a ball boy during his match against Jo-Wilfried Tsonga in Halle, via Express Sport.

Also in Express Sport, “Paul Jubb admitted he is too thin as yet to reach the top”.

What’s on social media
Jamie Murray summing things up.

View this post on Instagram

When you hit a worldy and go max power on the celebration but the points still going…. @andymurray #tennis

A post shared by Jamie Murray (@jamie__murray) on Jun 20, 2019 at 3:51pm PDT

Serena Williams is also back as she is practicing at the Patrick Mouratoglou Academy.

View this post on Instagram

It’s the eye of the tiger. It’s the tunnel vision. It’s the seamless service motion. It’s the intensity growing with every stroke. The Dynamic Duo is back. Serena Williams is back. Wimbledon. 🔜.

A post shared by Mouratoglou Tennis Academy 🎾 (@mouratoglou_tennis_academy) on Jun 20, 2019 at 12:13pm PDT

Inspirational “sappy post” from Nicole Gibbs.

View this post on Instagram

🚨Warning: sappy post🚨 This duo here has been a source of inspiration and guidance for me over the past 3 years on tour (and long before that from afar!). Being a part of my own father-daughter tennis duo and knowing the challenges that come with it, I’ve always stood in awe of how you two take on the world together. @carowozniacki thank you for being one of my closest friends and the greatest role model a girl could ask for. Even though you’re busy conquering the world week in week out, you always make time to celebrate my successes and talk me through challenges. Not sure how I got so lucky, but I’ll take it! Congrats @davidlee on marrying into an incredible family – and after spending time with yours over the past couple months, it’s easy to see that the “win” was mutual. Love you both, and WHAT A BEAUTIFUL WEDDING! ❤️👰🏼❤️

A post shared by Nicole Gibbs (@gibbsyyyy) on Jun 20, 2019 at 7:12pm PDT

And an inspirational tweet from Katie Swan.

Surround yourself with people who:
– Challenge you
– Support you
– Make you better
– Make you happy
– Love you for you

…and don’t settle for any less ☺️

— Katie Swan (@Katieswan99) June 21, 2019

Naomi Osaka in a happier mood.