Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic (Photo : Getty Images)
Rafael Nadal hasn't given up on his quest of recapturing his old form that helped him win 14 Grand Slam championships. On the other hand, the Spaniard is well aware of the fact that taking the world's no.1 from Novak Djokovic might be too much to ask for given the Serb's dominance as of late.
According to former ATP veteran and current Barcelona Open director Albert Costa, Nadal is doubling the effort to address his current slump, and still motivated to compete at a high level.
On the other hand, Costa also stressed that retaining the top spot in the ATP world ranking isn't much of a priority for him this season, all because Djokovic's incredible play as of late.
"Talk about the world number one is another thing because we have a Novak Djokovic very strong, but what should focus Rafa Nadal is in daily work, in the constantly improve their tennis. I know he's fighting, and maybe now is not at its best ranking and tennis, but in this line soon get important victories," Costa said in an interview with Mundo Deportive.
The 29-year old Nadal is still without a title this season after four tournaments. After reaching the final of the Dubai International Open, the Spaniard suffered a string of upsets against unheralded opponent. He lost to compatriot Fernando Verdasco in the first-round of the Australian Open, before failing to reach the final of the Argentina and Rio Open.
Toni Nadal, who has coached his nephew ever since he started playing tennis, admitted that Rafa's struggle is unprecedented and he's willing to surrender his role in the team, if that would help him regain his old form.
At the Indian Wells Open, Nadal will be once again tested against the cream of the crop. Djokovic, Andy Murray, Stan Wawrinka and other top-caliber netters will be all there competing in the first ATP Masters 1000 tournament of the year in the desert.
