Rafael Nadal Speaks Out About Jannik Sinner and His Injury

Rafael Nadal was among the most celebrated VIPs in Madrid during the Spanish Formula 1 Grand Prix, which was held for the first time on the brand-new track in the Spanish capital. The tennis legend, interviewed by Sky Sport, also shared some thoughts on tennis and, in particular, on the recent withdrawals of Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz.

The two champions, who have been undisputed stars of the tour for years, have had an unusual 2026: Carlos was sidelined for four and a half months due to a wrist injury, while Jannik, after winning Wimbledon, was sidelined by a knee injury, causing him to miss the U.S. Open as well.

“I think these setbacks are normal; they’re due to the fact that professional athletes place too great a physical strain on themselves,” said the left-hander from Manacor, who has often had to take time off due to physical issues throughout his long career. After two or three years of such intense physical exertion, injuries can happen, and both players need to factor that in. Let’s see how things develop for both of them, but it seems to me they’re doing very well. The Zverev-Shelton final? I hope I’ll be able to watch it.”

On the Spanish Open in Madrid: “I think it’s very good for Madrid, for the city, and for all of Spain. We’re very proud of what we’ve accomplished.”

Alcaraz and Sinner could face each other again in Beijing or Shanghai: the player from Murcia reached the quarterfinals of the US Open, while the player from South Tyrol is returning to training in Monte Carlo to prepare as best as possible for the season finale.