Six of the world’s greatest tennis players: Novak Djokovic, Roger Federer, David Ferrer, Jo Wilfried-Tsonga and Gael Monfils are about to descend on Abu Dhabi for the annual Mubadala World Tennis Championship, meaning it’s going to be three fast and furious days of world-class tennis. We caught up with number two seed, Rafael Nadal to see what’s in store for him at this year’s tournament.
How does the Mubadala Tennis Championship help you in terms of preparing for the Australian Open?
Abu Dhabi is a great way to start the season and start the preparation for the tournaments at the beginning of the year, especially the Australian Open. The exhibition format allows us to compete at the highest level but without the pressure of ranking points.
How do the courts in Abu Dhabi compare with those in Melbourne?
They are pretty similar, and that’s perfect to prepare for the first grand slam of the year.
How long to you think you can continue playing at the top level, considering the recent problems you had with your knees?
I am feeling great now and playing good tennis. As long as I am healthy and able to compete at the highest level I’ll be around. Hopefully I’ll be able to play for a long time!
What do you do in your spare time to relax; do you always head for home whenever you can?
I try to be at home, in Mallorca, and enjoy my time with my family and friends! For me it is simply the best time and I enjoy every minute of it.
What did you want to be when you were growing up and who were your childhood role models?
I always wanted to be a sportsman. I wanted to be a tennis player or even a football player. I am happy that I ended up doing what I always wanted to do.
What are the worst aspects of the pressures of fame?
I don’t really have that pressure. Maybe because I am from Mallorca and that’s a quiet place. I might feel it more when I go to big cities. But I try to enjoy it and give as much back as possible to fans and people in general. I feel I am someone who is very fortunate.
You’re known for awesome groundstrokes, speed and power, but what would you say is the best part of your game?
I can’t really say. I think that tennis is a very difficult sport. It is a very complete sport and you have to be very strong mentally and physically and have a high level of ability.
How much do you train?
It depends on the period of the season. I could be training up to seven hours in the pre-season but less during tournaments where I normally practice two to three hours a day.
What is your favourite pre-match meal?
Pasta, plain with butter and olive oil. Maybe also with some fish. I try to eat healthy and not too much, it is better to eat bigger but fewer meals.
Other than playing tennis, what else do you do to keep in shape?
Tennis keeps me pretty much in shape but I also enjoy playing football with my friends, golf or fishing – fishing is clearly just for fun not to stay in shape!
In February this year in Abu Dhabi you won the Laureus World Sportsman of the Year for the first time, how did it feel to be given this award when up against the world’s best in all sports?
It was a great feeling. I already won some years ago the upcoming athlete category but to win the main one was amazing. I will always consider it one of the most relevant things in my career.
Who has been the toughest opponent you have ever played against and why?
I think Roger Federer has always been the toughest opponent although last year Novak Djokovic was for me the best and most difficult. As a matter of fact I lost to him!
Mubadala Tennis Championships takes place December 29 – 31 For more information visit mubadalawtc.com, and to buy tickets visit www.thinkflash.ae or call 800 FLASH (35274)
