Rafael Nadal was told to copy Roger Federer by coach
ROGER FEDERER was able to change his game, an aspect Rafael Nadal was always told to copy by his uncle Toni.
Toni worked as his nephew Rafael’s coach for decades and was responsible for introducing him to the game.
However, the 56-year-old stepped down at the end of 2017 to run the Rafael Nadal Tennis Academy in Mallorca.
But he is still in regular contact with the world No 1 and is a popular figure in the Spanish media.
And in an article for Spanish outlet El Pais, Toni today revealed that he had admired Federer’s adaptability from afar and encouraged Nadal to do something similar.
“When in 2013 or 2014 it was understood in many circles that [Federer] was in the decline of his career, he was willing to perpetuate and renew,” Toni wrote.
“He did not mind facing the uncertainty when he had already won everything and his reputation was undeniable.
“He wanted to give himself the opportunity to continue increasing his track record doing what I have always asked my nephew: to make changes on what until now has given you very good results.
“The human mind is usually conservative in the face of insecurity.
“Nothing is more difficult than modifying what has always worked.
“Apparently, this was one of the keys to the mentality of Steve Jobs.
“Being able to observe where the shots go and modify what has been successful instead of continuing to trust in their virtues.”
Federer is now set to take at least a month off before potentially returning to action on February 26, although the Swiss says he may skip the Dubai Championship too depending on how his body recovers from the Australian Open.
Nadal meanwhile first has to recover from his leg injury, which he is confident of doing, before returning on the same date in Acapulco.
And Toni hopes that Federer’s most recent success in restoring his four-title lead over Nadal with his 20th Grand Slam title has not left his nephew disheartened.
“Each victory of Federer complicates things more for my nephew but, if the injuries steer clear, I hope I won’t see him abandon the fight mentally or the accept things as they are,” Toni added.
“Today, as Roger has moved away a little more from him, I share with many people the great value of this man and the magnitude of his achievements, but also today more than ever Rafael should want to fight to overcome his current setback and find the necessary conviction in his own passion.”