Rafael Nadal continued his Wimbledon preparations with another exhibition match at the Giorgio Armani Tennis Classic event in west London.
In a quite competitive match Canadian Felix Auger-Aliassime recorded a 7-6 (8-6), 4-6, 1-0 (10-3) victory against Rafa. Our champ was looking to take more control of the match as it went on but Auger-Aliassime had the power and accuracy to take advantage of the deciding tie-breaker.
Despite the loss, it’s good to see Rafa smlling and that he showed no signs of the foot problems that put his participation at Wimbledon in doubt.
The goal is achieved. It was great to play an amazing player like Felix. Today he was a little bit better than me but it has been a positive few days. I have not played on this surface for three years so every day is a chance and an opportunity. I hope to be 100 percent ready for the start of the tournament.
Rafa Nadal
We’re competitors we try to win whenever we can, even when practicing for major tournaments. He [Rafael Nadal] is a great inspiration to me, it’s a pleasure and priviledge to get to play him. I had a great week, so thank you and maybe see you next year.
Felix Auger-Aliassime
Match highlights:
Keep it up and than go for it Rafa❤️
Good luck as you continue prep. For Wimby👏👍🤛💪🍀🎾❤️
Rafa has three more days to practice before his first round match. His team knows very well what he needs to improve. Let’s hope he will have enough time to adjust on grass for upcoming challenges.
Felix served very well, and Rafa didn’t particularly, but thankfully there was no sign of the foot problem. Difficult match in very windy conditions.