by At the end of his career, Liam Broady noticed something different about Rafael Nadal’s game.
The 38-year-old is known for his fearsome forehand topspins and great variety, which caused many problems for his opponents.
The Spaniard’s impressive movements and coverage allowed him to win some points that simply seemed impossible.
These are qualities that will be sorely missed on the ATP Tour as Nadal is set to end his tennis career after the Davis Cup final in November.
What did Liam Broady notice about Rafael Nadal’s play at the Six Kings Slam?
Rafael Nadal ended his Six Sings Slam campaign against his great rival Novak Djokovic in the third place playoff. This match became official after Nadal suffered a loss to Carlos Alcaraz in the semifinals on Friday.
The former world number one gave his all again against his great rival and showed insights into the player who has won 22 Grand Slam titles.
But Liam Broady, commentating on the match for Sky Sports, noted something about Nadal’s return to serve that leaves him unable to show the same ability later in his career.
“Over the years we have seen that Rafael Nadal has been one of the best returners on tour,” said the former world number 93.
“It always happened from two or three meters behind the baseline, especially on the second serve, and just took his time ripping the forehand from anywhere on the court.
“But as his physicality declines, that is simply no longer possible. When you go back there, you have to move in a way that he just physically can’t.”
Did Rafael Nadal beat Novak Djokovic at the Six Kings Slam?
Nadal lost the opening set against Djokovic, winning just two games as he made some uncharacteristic errors.
He was trailing 4-5 in the second set when Djokovic served for the game, but Nadal reminded fans of his brilliance by breaking back in the next game and holding serve with some brilliant forehands to take a 6-5 lead go.
The second set went to a tiebreak, which Djokovic won with seven points to five and sealed the victory. Following the match, Djokovic had some kind words about his great rival. “Now about Rafa, I don’t know where to start. “I think that was the first game we played in 2005,” he said.
“Who would have thought that 20 years later we would be standing here facing each other more than 60 times? I have the utmost respect for you. Incredible athlete. Incredible person. I would like to congratulate your entire team and family on Rafa’s great career.
“Congratulations. An amazing, amazing career. It’s difficult. I could talk all night. I think Rafa should talk instead of me. It was an incredible honor, as I told you on the internet.
“Incredible pleasure to share the space with you. It’s an emotional moment.” He ended his speech with an appeal to his rival. “Don’t give up on tennis, man,” Djokovic said. “Stay a little longer. Stay with us.”
Nadal added: “I would like to say a few words for Novak and his team. Thank you very much. For everything. What you said today and all the moments we shared on the pitch. It was an amazing rivalry. You have personally helped me push my limits for almost 15 years.
“Without that I wouldn’t be the player I am today. Congratulations on all the titles and a great career for you and your team. I wish you the best of luck for the future.”
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