Felix Auger Aliassime hit the headlines this week for hiring Rafael Nadal’s uncle Toni in his coaching team. Why many were stunned by the move, the world number 1 Novak Djokovic declared that he wasn’t too surprised. During a recent interview in Monte Carlo, Novak commented:
“It honestly did not surprise me too much. I know Felix has spent quite a bit of time in the last couple of years in Rafa’s academy training and getting advice and mentorship from Toni.”
There is not bad feeling with Rafa Nadal about the move of Uncle Toni. Felix and Rafa even trained together in Monte Carlo the last few days with Toni on Felix’s side.
Felix will kick-start his campaign in the Principality against the Christian Garin. The head to head is 1-1 and they have always played on clay. The prediction is Felix winning in three sets.
Felix Auger Aliassime in 2021
Ranked no.22, Felix played his last match on the 28th of March when he was overcome by world no.38 John Isner 7-6(5) 7-6(5) in the 3rd round in Miami (draw).
During this season the Canadian has achieved a composed 10-5 record. Felix Auger Aliassime’s most significant accomplishment of this season was getting to the final in Melbourne.
Novak Djokovic in 2021
At the moment ranked no.1, the Serbian played his last match on the 21st of February when he overcame world no.2 Daniil Medvedev 7-5 6-2 6-2 in the final of the Australian Open to win his 82nd career title.
At present, during this year Novak owns a 9-0 match record. Djokovic clinched 1 title at the Australian Open.
Felix Auger Aliassime and Novak Djokovic have never faced off.
Rafael Nadal in 2021
Currently the world no.3, Nadal played his last match on the 17th of February when he lost to world no.5 Stefanos Tsitsipas 3-6 2-6 7-6(4) 6-4 7-5 in the quarter of the Australian Open (draw).
This season Nadal has a 4-1 match record.
