Rafael Nadal: Dominic Thiem reacts to big McEnroe claim before Monte Carlo Masters clash
DOMINIC THIEM has addressed John McEnroe’s big claim about Rafael Nadal.
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Thiem, who was the only player to beat Nadal on clay last season, set up a quarter-final clash at the Monte Carlo Masters after deposing of Novak Djokovic.
Nadal, who only just returned to the ATP Tour after struggling with a hip injury, is the favourite to get his hands on the Monte Carlo Masters for an 11th time.
The Spaniard, who will need to defend his clay court titles to remain at world No 1 is the greatest player on the red dirt.
McEnroe had suggested that facing Nadal on clay was the toughest challenge in tennis.
It's the ultimate challenge for everybody, to play against him … I have to raise my level again
And Thiem was happy to re-iterate those comments.
“For sure. It's a way better feeling if you go against him and know that you've beaten him already on this surface,” Thiem said.
“Also two years ago we had a great match here, which was pretty open.
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“It's the ultimate challenge for everybody, to play against him … I have to raise my level again.
“I think I'm able to do that.
“If you do so, I'm going to have chances. If not, I'm out. It's pretty easy.”