Rafael Nadal will return to the Indian Wells for the 2022 BNP Paribas Open, tournament. His participation was confirmed by the organisers on Monday.
Nadal beat Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer to the record 21st Grand Slam titles. He defeated Russia’s Daniil Medvedev in the Australia Open 2022 final to win the title.
Rafa is the first player to have reached 21 Grand Slam titles in the Open Era. Even though Rafa was down with injuries and covid, he made a brilliant comeback.
The Spaniard fought back and emerged victorious against all the odds. The injuries and Covid could not stop him from winning the coveted 21st Grand Slam title.
Rafa’s coach, Carlos Moya said that the Spaniard is a “survivor” who wants to keep winning Grand Slams for years to come.
Rafael Nadal Excited About Indian Wells
Rafael Nadal will return to California to play in the Indian Wells 2022. The organisers announced his participation through their official Twitter page.
Rafa has not played in Indian Wells since 2019. It ended in a semi-final loss to his long-time rival, Roger Federer.
He was set to take part in the 2020 tournament, but that was cancelled just days before it was set to start due to the pandemic and he did not take part in the 2021 tournament.
On his Californian comeback, Rafa said, “For me it will be even more special returning this year after missing the tournament in October. See you soon in the tennis (and golf) paradise, Indian Wells.”
Rafa even acknowledged the support of the fans there: “The fans are great and knowledgeable about tennis, and they really make me feel special when playing and everywhere I go.”
Nadal’s History In The BNP Paribas Open
Rafael Nadal is a three-time BNP Paribas Open winner. However, his last title came almost a decade ago.
He has won the tournament in 2007, 2009, and 2013. He has also won the doubles tournament twice, in 2011 and 2012. Rafa won the doubles both times with fellow Spaniard, Marc Lopez.
Nadal is also a fan of the desert over there. Previously he has been seen enjoying the desert life when the tournament happens.