Rumour mill churns over Nadal’s Monte Carlo plans

Rafael Nadal’s intended appearance at the Monte Carlo Masters starting  on Sunday has provided fuel for tennis rumour-mongers, with suggestions on social media that the injured clay king will not be fit for a return to action.

The 37-year-old’s camp has been quiet on their plans, with the 22-time Grand Slam winner not having hit a ball in anger since Brisbane the first week of the year.

A back injury flared during that event, with Nadal concentrating on recovery ever since.

Some commentators suggest that not only could Nadal skip his return in the principality but that an appearance at his home Barcelona event a week later could also be in doubt.

The Spaniard himself has gone to ground, with few public pronouncements on his condition.

But if he does front up, the emphasis will be on securing a long-odds record-extending 15th trophy in early June at Roland Garros.

 “My priority goal, which is what I said from the beginning, is to get to the clay season as healthy as possible,” Nadal said last month at a public appearance.

“I want to try to give myself the option to enjoy the clay season. At this point in my career, I have to analyse how I am at every moment, the feelings I have and where I most want to play.”

Main photo:- Rafa Nadal wins 2022 Roland Garros Men’s singles final,his 22nd Grand Slam title by Roger Parker International Sports Fotos Ltd