Rested Rafa is ready for Roger
NET PROFIT: Nadal RAFA NADAL has shrugged off his post-clay season fatigue to start dreaming of a rematch with Roger Federer.
The Spaniard, 32, was not sure he was going to enter the tournament after his 11th French Open victory left him exhausted.
But fishing on his million-pound boat, mixing with pals and playing golf has focused his mind on turning back the clock.
At Wimbledon 10 years ago his life changed forever.
Victory over Federer was a watershed moment as he finally took the coveted title after two successive final defeats.
He said: “In general terms, important things in life didn’t change much. In tennis, it was a very important step forward in my career.”
Nadal had previously been known as the King of Clay. To conquer Federer on grass was a breakthrough even he could hardly believe was possible.
He added: “It was one of the most emotional matches I have played in. Yeah, everyone knows for me the win was one of my dreams.
“After losing two finals, that final had a big impact in my career, my life. The personal satisfaction it gave me is difficult to compare with other things.
“It was great. Today it seems a long time ago but the good thing is I am still here. I am happy for that.”
But despite being seeded second at Wimbledon and ranked World No.1, Nadal knows his ageing bones cannot take much more.
Nadal added: “Tennis to me now is different from 10 years ago. Playing on grass is still difficult for me, I only play twice a year on it.
“But this is Wimbledon, a special place. I love being around here.
“I am not 20 any more. I had to make decisions on my schedule. I decided not to play Queen’s because after a long clay court season, the body needed a rest, needed a slow adaptation to grass. So that’s why I took a break.”
Since winning in 2011, Nadal has struggled at Wimbledon, not once progressing past the fourth round.
He said: “This tournament is so different to the others.
“You arrive not knowing what is going to happen, you can’t rely on previous performances.”