Rafael Nadal: Spain Davis Cup captain reveals injury update
RAFAEL NADAL is “getting stronger” but is not guaranteed to be fit for the Davis Cup next week, Sergi Bruguera has confirmed.
Rafael Nadal last played for Spain in the Davis Cup back in 2016
Nadal was today selected for Spain’s Davis Cup quarter-final with Germany.
The 31-year-old has not played since exiting the Australian Open with a hip injury two months ago.
Spain host Germany on clay in Valencia on 6-8 April.
And a hopeful Bruguera admits there is no certainty Nadal will be 100 per cent ready for the contest after naming him in his five-man squad.
"Rafa is recovering from his injury,” Bruguera said.
Rafael Nadal has been selected for Spain's Davis Cup clash with Germany
Rafael Nadal has not played since injuring his hip at the Australian Open
He is getting better
“He is getting better, he is training, getting better and stronger.
“And he has a lot of hope of reaching the best (level) he can next week.”
Rafael Nadal’s inclusion in the Davis Cup squad is not just a boost for Spain but also the player himself.
The 16-time Grand Slam winner is desperate to be back fit for the French Open in the summer.
To do that, he is aiming to compete in the Monte Carlo Masters, where he will defend his title.
And the Davis Cup tie is seen as the perfect way to prepare for that tournament, with Bruguera willing to take the gamble to select him.
“He had the injury in Australia and he aggravated the injury again,” Bruguera added.
“These are typical things that happen to everybody, but when it happens to Rafa everything is magnified.
“It happens to all athletes, the recovery goes well and we hope that he arrives (for the Davis Cup) in the best possible condition.”