Joe Duggan (Reporter)
RAFAEL Nadal is bidding for his first ATP World title of the season as he gears up for this month’s Indian Wells masters.
The 29-year-old Spaniard has been training in Mexico since the Rio Open as he prepares for the California tournament on March 10.
But after a first-round exit in January’s Australian Open, the 14-time Grand Slam winner’s uncle and coach Toni admits Nadal’s confidence is low.
“Every time that you do not win you have less confidence, and when you lose confidence and tranquility, you play under tension every time, on the break points as well,” said Toni.
“And the forehand, that is the biggest strength in Rafa’s game, does not hurt like it usually did, it does not go like before.”
Rafa should remove uncle Tony as soon as possible and bring some one like Carlos Moya or anyone who can bring that killer instinct to his game which is lacking now…
Uncle Tony is too submissive and it is time for him to walk away.
New coach and new direction just before roland garros is a big risk. Work on his basics as you can see the joker worked on his serve and volley and made minor adjustments. Today the point is won in a short rally not like in the old times and that is where his strategy is failing at the moment. To be able to win short points is not his strength but if he was able to make it a strength the the rafa of old will return, definitely.