Rafael Nadal vs Roger Federer: Marat Safin reveals why Spaniard has the edge
RAFAEL NADAL has the edge over Roger Federer because of his age.
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That’s the view of two-time Grand Slam winner Marat Safin, who believes Nadal can at least equal Federer’s 20 Majors.
Nadal gained his 17th Grand Slam at the weekend as he won the French Open for the 11th time.
Federer skipped Roland Garros but will be back for Wimbledon as he hunts for a ninth title at SW19.
Federer will turn 37 in August while Nadal recently celebrated his 32nd birthday.
And that age gap gives Rafael Nadal the edge in the hunt for Grand Slams according to former world No 1 Safin.
Asked by AS to choose between Nadal and Federer, Safin said: “Nadal, because he is five years younger.
“I think he can reach Federer's results, especially with today's level.
“Before it was impossible to play at 37 years, you weren't winning a match.
“I had to stop due to a knee, I could not run and compete with younger players.”
Nadal is a doubt for Wimbledon having pulled out of next week’s tournament at Queen’s.
The current world No 1 struggled with a hand injury during the French Open final against Dominic Thiem and will take some time off to rest.
Nadal said:“Queen’s is a great event, I have happy memories of winning the title in 2008 and I wanted to come back this year.
“But it has been a very long clay court season for me with great results.
“I would like to say sorry to the tournament organisers and most of all to the fans that were hoping to see me play, but I have spoken to my doctors and I need to listen to what my body is telling me.”