Serena Williams gave her first press conference at Wimbledon 2022 a few days before her first-round match. While she talked about many things, an interviewer asked her about Rafael Nadal and his performance this year. Serena has always been a Nadal fan and did not hesitate to shower praise on him.
Moreover, the 23-time grand slam winner said, “He’s been really inspiring in everything that he’s done this year and he has a lot more to do.” Nadal has been in fine touch and has won both the grand slams of the year. The two slams took him two clear of his rivals Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer.
Serena and Nadal are currently leading the race for the most grand slams in the singles category. While Nadal is facing competition from Djokovic and Federer (up to some extent), Serena is currently alone at the top. No active player is even remotely close to touching her record of 23 grand slams.
Both the players share a long friendship that goes back many years. They have the same kind of aggression and energy on the court. Serena and Nadal are known for their mental toughness and their attitude of never giving up even when the odds are stacked against them.
Serena Williams has a dog named after Rafael Nadal
Serena’s love and admiration for Nadal can be known through another fact. She has a dog who goes by the name of Nadal. During the interview, the American tennis star said, “I’ve always been a Rafa fan my dog is I named. My dog after him. He’s so cute. I miss the little guy.”
Serena Williams: “I am always rooting for Rafa. He’s been really inspiring in everything he’s done this year and he has a lot more to do.” https://t.co/Lu100mCZtA
— Rafael Nadal Fans (@RafaelNadalFC) June 25, 2022
She also made it clear in the interview that she would be rooting for Nadal to take the trophy home. Nadal’s participation in Wimbledon was in doubt due to his foot injury. However, he got the treatment on time and is now one of the favorites to win the event.
On the other hand, Serena is not the favorite to win Wimbledon considering her long break and age. However, she has managed to surprise everyone multiple times in her career.