Google News
World No. 78 Jaume Munar says Rafael Nadal has had a direct impact on his career and admitted he is inspired by the record 21-time Grand Slam champion. Munar, 24, has had success on the Challenger Tour and he has also proved that he is capable of playing well on the ATP Tour.
Munar, a seven-time champion on the Challenger Tour, achieved a career-high ranking of No. 52 in 2019. Last year in Marbella, Munar fell just short of winning his first ATP title as he was beaten by Pablo Carreno Busta in a three-set final.
According to Munar, he wouldn't be where he is now without Nadal. "Today I already have my training patterns because I have more experience than a few years ago," Munar told Marca. "But he helped me a lot, and I will always remember, when I arrived at the Academy, seeing the way he trained and the desire and intensity with which he did it.
He is an inspiration to me and to all children. If there is someone who has had a direct impact on my career, it is him."
Munar: Nadal plays because he loves the game
Nadal, who will be turning 36 in June, enjoyed a stunning comeback to tennis at the start of the 2022 season.
After being limited to only one event in the second part of the 2021 season, Nadal returned by winning a record 21st Grand Slam title at the Australian Open. Nadal has a stunning 20-1 record in 2022. "Yes, it surprises me, but less than many people because I have been lucky enough to know Rafa from within, I know what his ambitions are and I know that he likes his day-to-day life and that he likes tennis," Munar explained.
"He plays because he loves it and of course he also competes for records, obviously. He enjoys what he does, that's why he maintains the illusion of 18 years ago."