IS IT REALLY OVER?

Guess not. He’s only 23 and injuries do happen.

The most alarming story of this year’s Australian Open is Rafael Nadal’s vanishing indestructibility. For the past few years, Rafa Nadal seemed to be so unconquerable. His ability, built and strong left- hand spin were truly remarkable. Too bad, it now turned the other way. His bulkier muscles and robust figure now can’t let him grab another title. His potency now can’t manage his opponents’ strength. And all because of these- everybody’s illusion of seeing the rivalry between him and Roger Federer was now shattered.

This is always the issue- his injuries. Last year he was brought down by significant knee and abdominal injuries. He had withdrawn his Wimbledon match for the same reason. And now it's the right knee again, forcing him to quit in his quarterfinal match against Andy Murray. Unfortunately, he has not grabbed a Grand Slam title since his victory at the Australian Open last year. And sorry to say, he was also forced to leave the tennis world for four weeks for the treatment of his right knee.

As a tennis fan, I’m really alarmed on what’s happening with Nadal right now. Call me cruel, but being his self-proclaimed no. 1 fan, I’m really worried that he may fail to gain his lost power and fall short to bring brilliant and breathtaking moments.

As his story goes, he was forced to retire in his matches because of his stomach injury. He wasn’t able to defend his Wimbledon title because of his knees. After several months of rest, he looks so conditioned as if he were ready to face a destructive storm. Unluckily, this was only an assumption, it didn’t come into reality. His first major this year which is the Australian is now again on hold because of his stupid injury.

Because of this problem, I am really troubled,if he’s body will ever be the same.

I’ve been trying to analyze what Rafa must do to get back in action. It’s difficult, but it is so possible. I could probably use Kim Clijsters comeback experience after one year but astonishingly captured the US Open championships. I’m not saying that he must rest for one year but rather take it as an inspiration. It’s absolutely different because Kim got pregnant while he got an injury. But still, I knew him as man of will and determination. He must try to gain back his mental strength. His heart and dedication. His high spirit. His willingness to conquer all the pain and sufferings. His faith. His eagerness. His hunger. His passion. Making the most out of all he could possibly offer.

Again, I’m still praying for Rafa. He is a great champion with talent and heart and must not let his stupid injuries tear him down. In Fact, he has proven to melt the greatest man in tennis. He must have to push his dedications to become the best of all time. And once more, it ain’t over till it’s over. 
By: Zhella Jean A. Hulleza