Rafael Nadal has just announced that he will play the ATP500 in Rotterdam The King of Clay will join a very strong entry list with the presence of Jannik Sinner, Stan Wawrinka, and Daniil Medvedev.
Rafa didn’t play this event for 12 years since he usually prefers competing in Latin American after the Australian Open. However, the global pandemic made him change the plans.
Nadal commented:
“I am looking forward to returning to the Netherlands. It has been a long time ago since I went to play in Rotterdam. This year the season has a different calendar and in this case, it fits well into my schedule.
It’s a tournament that I like to play and hopefully be in their honors roll. I hope to see again all my Dutch friends and fans in Rotterdam.”
Tournament Director Richard Krajicek was obviously elated to having Nadal in the main draw alongside some other big names.
“It’s no secret that Rafael Nadal is one of my all-time favourite players. The intensity he brings to the court is unparalleled. His fighting spirit in combination with his unique technique is an example for everyone.
The fact that he returns to Rotterdam after so many years makes it extra special, of course,” he said.
The defending champion is Gael Monfils that has conquered the event for the last 2 years. The tournament will start on the 1st of March.
Rafael Nadal in 2021
Ranked world no.2, Rafael played his last match on the 21st of November 2020 when he was defeated by Daniil Medvedev 3-6 7-6(4) 6-3 in the semifinal in the Nitto ATP Finals (draw).
Jannik Sinner in 2021
Currently ranked no.36 (career-high), Sinner played his last match on the 14th of November 2020 when he defeated Vasek Pospisil 6-4 3-6 7-6(3) in the final in Sofia to win his 1st career title.
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Rafael Nadal and Jannik Sinner played each other only on 1 occasion. Their actual record is 1-0 for Nadal.
Stan Wawrinka in 2021
Ranked no.18, the Swiss played his last match on the 6th of November 2020 when he lost to Alexander Zverev 6-3 7-6(1) in the quarter in Paris (draw).
Daniil Medvedev in 2021
Now the world no.4 (career-high), the Russian played his last match on the 22nd of November 2020 when he overcame Dominic Thiem 4-6 7-6(2) 6-4 in the final in the Nitto ATP Finals to win his 9th career title.
Stan Wawrinka and Daniil Medvedev played each other 3 times. The head to head is 2-1 for Medvedev. Previously, the last time they fought against each other, Stan Wawrinka won 6-2 2-6 4-6 7-62 6-2 in the 4th round in Melbourne (Australian Open) in January 2020.
In the following video you can watch the key moments of their match.
