Rafael Nadal: French Open champion's secret to success revealed
RAFAEL NADAL has continued to adapt as he has got older and that is his secret to success.
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That is the verdict of two-time French Open champion Jim Courier.
Nadal landed his record 11th French Open title this afternoon, beating Dominic Thiem in straight sets.
The 32-year-old has enjoyed a superb 18 months and has won three of the last five Grand Slams available to him.
And Courier says Nadal has adapted his playing style in order to be fit enough to get through matches.
Nadal continues to be willing to add things to his game as the game evolves, as his body evolves
“Nadal is the first one to tell you he doesn’t believe in tennis perfection,” Courier said on ITV.
“But he continue to pursue it and that’s another mark of his greatness.
“Nadal continues to be willing to add things to his game as the game evolves, as his body evolves.
“As he ages he’s finding ways to win by trying to shorten the points, trying to play more aggressive when he needs to.
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“But the thing that doesn’t change with Rafael Nadal is his point in, point out mentality and his consistency and professionalism.
“He has the right team around him, but with the greatest trainer in the world, you can’t take a donkey to a derby as we say.
“You need a great horse and Rafa is a true thoroughbred.”