“The discomfort is in the same place as the previous injury,” explained the legendary player, “but I think it is due to fatigue,” he added, to allay concerns about a possible relapse.

The considered best clay court player on the planet beat Thompson in a demanding duel that lasted more than three hours and where he defeated him 5-7, 7-6 and 6-3, which is why he considers that the discomfort that he reports is associated with physical exhaustion.

Nadal retired from top competition last May to undergo long-term treatment that would allow him to return in 2024 from the start and in the best possible shape.

ef/lam/arp