Rafael Nadal coaches give REAL reason for Barcelona Open wobble
RAFAEL NADAL’s coaches explained why the world No 2 suffered a slight wobble against Leonardo Mayer at the Barcelona Open.
Barcelona Open: Leonardo Mayer takes first set against Nadal
Nadal lost the opening set to Mayer - the first set he has dropped in Catalonia since 2015.
However, he gradually began to grow into the match and progressed to set up a third-round tie with fellow Spaniard David Ferrer.
Both of Nadal’s coaches, Carlos Moya and Francis Roig, were present at the Barcelona Open.
And Mundo Deportivo caught a word with the pair after each set - in which they explained the current problems.
After the surprising first set, Moya blamed the 32-year-old’s mentality.
"Too many mistakes, he needs to have a calmer head,” he said.
The second set brought a much improved performance, but Roig was still not fully convinced.
“He's nervous and not picking up the sensations," said Roig.
Rafael Nadal says he is ready to defend Barcelona title
Nadal will have to up his level if he is to beat is good friend Ferrer in the next round.
"I've been weak, but the goal was to win and I've been good in the ability to endure, with the attitude necessary to finish winning the game,” Nadal said.
“At the level of the game, I do have things to improve.
"We know each other very well, he is a very good friend and it will be a unique game in a little more special conditions.
"We have a very nice joint history in tennis and in this tournament.
“It will be a day to be prepared to compete well because David is in the last of the last and with that little pressure that makes him play more cheerful and carefree.
“That gives him a little bit extra.”