Even though he appears to have the most momentum having won four of the last five tournaments, his injury record, his latest hand injury, lack of similar record for Federer and Nadal, hard court season galore for the next about six months, his record post Wimbledon etc. may position him as most to fall victim to monster called ‘borrowed time’ - abruptly.
Unless Federer or Djokovic have a bizarre twist or fall, the two may be less susceptible to falling off the tour - suddenly.
Nadal's latest ‘break’ may be in recognition of that situation.
Add his chances of winning something between now and the end of year - historically - coupled with age and increasing reliance on Roland Garros now to move the needle on the Slam pole, it may be a calculated move ‘designed’ at the blue print quarters.
Granted he still has the Masters ‘position’ to defend given Djokovic is now trailing by just two but he knows he can make up that difference @ 2020 clay season - specially if Djokovic is truly faltering at 'big' events as evidence suggests.
No. 1 rank?
Sure it may be up for grabs but at this point considering how close he is to No. 20, the priority is to bag that first and then worry about everything else - as NOTHING can move the GOAT needle like No. 20 or 21 can. Besides, isn't it in his interest to help Djokovic pass Federer @ most weeks @ No. 1 pole?
And then there the fact that while he is away, both Federer and Djokovic are running the clock on the 'borrowed time' treadmill.
Deduction: Nadal may be here - and gone tomorrow - unexpectedly - unless he meticulously and precisely times everything - on and off the court.
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