Rafael Nadal reveals he feels lost at French Open as he chases 18th Grand Slam title
RAFAEL NADAL appeared at the French Open draw this afternoon where he claimed to feel “lost” at Roland Garros for the first time.
Paris has become Nadal’s home away from home and he has claimed a record 11 titles at the French Open.
The Spaniard is hoping to add to his Grand Slam haul of 17 over the next couple of weeks.
But centre court - Court Philippe-Chatrier - has had a makeover over the last 12 months with parts of the ground being demolished and improved.
Nadal admitted he has struggled to adjust to the new surroundings, although he hopes to be fully accustomed to the new set-up come Monday.
“I just came here after winning the Rome title and I was very pleased with of course that victory,” he said as the draw was made this evening.
“It gave me a lot of confidence and you need confidence to win a Grand Slam.
“I have seen the new stadium which is great improvement.
“I was a little bit lost at the beginning but now we have two weeks to get along.
“I am happy to be here again and it is good to see tournaments doing new things.
“From the players fans we thank Roland Garros for the great things they are going for us.”
Nadal has been handed a favourable start to the French Open and face a qualifier in the first two rounds.
Roger Federer is a potential semi-final opponent, while world No 1 Novak Djokovic was placed in the opposite half.
RAFAEL NADAL’S PROJECTED FRENCH OPEN DRAW
First Round - Qualifier
Second Round - Qualifier
Third Round - David Goffin
Fourth Round - Nikoloz Basilashvili
Quarter-Final - Kei Nishikori
Semi-Final - Roger Federer
Final - Novak Djokovic