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Rafael Nadal has taken an indirect position against Novak Djokovic. His rival recently suggested in an open letter that the organizers of the Australian Open should relax the strict quarantine measures.
72 players – including Belinda Bencic and Henri Laaksonen – had to go into self-isolation in Melbourne. This of course severely disrupted their plans for the preparation for the Australian Open, which will begin on February 8th. For example, they are not allowed to leave their hotel room for training. Other professionals who were lucky enough not to be on a flight with a person who tested positive for the coronavirus were able to go out and train every day.
The top 3 men and women also enjoy special privileges, for example by being quarantined in Adelaide and allowed to take more staff members with them. Some of the “quarantine victims” complained on the one hand about the conditions in their hotel rooms and on the other hand about the lack of equal treatment.
In an interview with “ESPN Argentina”, Rafael Nadal shows understanding for the criticism. But he also states: “Here in Adelaide we have better conditions than most who are in Melbourne, but there are also players there who have larger rooms than others, or some who also have no contact with their coach. » But one hears nothing of this unequal treatment, says the world number 2. “The complaints always come from a disadvantaged position. When you talk about ‘fair play’ or equal terms, people tend not to complain about the position of those who are worse off than them – you always look up. “
A clear swipe at Djokovic
Nadal’s conclusion: “We are all trying to do the best we can and to help each other.” Novak Djokovic also wanted to help, who wrote an open letter to the tournament management demanding better conditions for the players in quarantine. The action did not meet with approval from everyone.
“Some have to make everything public that they do to help the players,” said Nadal tellingly. “Others do it in a more private way, without posting anything we do. Some of us don’t feel the need to publicize the appeals to help the most disadvantaged players. ”
For the 34-year-old it is clear: “Despite the 14-day quarantine, you should try to avoid excessive complaints.” Of course, he understands the problems caused by complications and he has “maximum solidarity” with the players concerned. But unfortunately it is no comparison to what is happening in some places in the world, explains Nadal.
Tennis players should appreciate being able to take part in competitions: “You are in five-star hotels and get food there.” The staff there would take care of you and try to do their best. “I applaud all those who have a positive attitude and understanding,” said Nadal.
With a view to the sporting prospects in 2021, Nadal is modest. So he neither has to compulsively become number one nor overtake Roger Federer in the number of Grand Slams – both have triumphed 20 times so far. “My way of approaching the Grand Slams is always the same. Being one of the most successful players right now hasn’t changed my motivation or put pressure on me. I always compete with maximum enthusiasm and motivation. “
