Nadal disputes Stefanos Tsitsipas’ declaration that he is the tournament favorite, saying, “I guess there’s a lot of respect for what I’ve done in this tournament, but everybody knows I’m not a favorite anymore.” Nadal made this statement a few hours earlier. Let’s be honest, it’s foolish, and you already know that. Although everyone is aware that I’m no longer the favorite to win a tournament, I think there is still a lot of respect for what I’ve accomplished in this one.
The opponents are greatly influenced by the historical background of the matter. Although I’m not the favorite today, is it feasible that I will be in the match? I am aware that I am not the favorite versus de Miñaur tomorrow, but that also doesn’t matter. Playing against a top player is an experience for me. Rafa said at the press conference following his tournament debut, “It will be a test for me; we will see how I respond,” according to quotes obtained by Punto de Break.
In his first clay-court encounter since winning Roland Garros in 2022, Rafael Nadal has claimed his first victory. They have only met four times since Frances Tiafoe eliminated them in the round of 16 at the US Open.
Despite not being a clay court specialist, Alex de Miñaur is having the best season of his career as he breaks into the world’s top 10 this year. He is a player who can trouble any player on any surface.
Rafael Nadal began the Barcelona Open on a high note by defeating Flavio Cobolli 6-2, 6-3 in a display of force. In tomorrow’s match, the 12-time Barcelona Open champion does not consider himself the favorite against Alex de Miñaur.