Nadal frustrated he is unable to practise

The Spanish government has extended the country’s state of alarm until May 9, with the entire population confined to their homes except a small number working in specific sectors. This has left Nadal perplexed as to why he can’t train. “We cannot play tennis when many people are going to work. But in our sport, there is a large and safe distance between the players and we are on the opposite sides of the court,” World No.2 Nadal said during an Instagram Live session.

“But, I understand that we are in a very critical situation. The government is dealing with something unprecedented. I also understand that the last thing it thinks of is who can train and who cannot. I understand the situation and obviously there are many things that are not logical, but you have to accept the rules.” Nadal treated tennis fans to an Instagram Live in which he spoke to both Roger Federer and Andy Murray about their experiences during lockdown. The men’s and women’s tours have been halted due to the virus, while Wimbledon was cancelled last month for the first time since World War II. Nadal’s favourite Grand Slam, the French Open, was pushed back to September 20. “I am not playing tennis, I do not have a court at home and I miss it a little,” said Nadal.

“I am sticking to my physical routines. From the gym in my academy, people brought me some machines when the lockdown began. So, I try to work a little in the morning and a little in the afternoon. It is very important to have both head and body focused and that is what I am trying to do at all times.”

Federer, meanwhile, gave an update on his right knee after the 20-time major winner decided to undergo surgery in February. “I have been hitting a bit against a wall, (doing) rehabilitation with the knee,” said Federer.

“It is OK, I had a really good first six weeks. Then, it was a bit slower, now it is getting better again but I have plenty of time. There is no stress, no rush. If there is anything positive (about being in lockdown), that is the only thing really. I just want the knee to be good, it doesn’t matter when I return.”