Rafa’s First Press Conference – BNP Paribas

Written by: Resendiz on 7th March 2013

Rafa's First Press Conference - BNP Paribas |

Indian Wells, CA – After a few days of practice since arriving form New York, Spain’s Rafael Nadal took time out of his day to speak to members of the media and answer all of their questions regarding his knee injury and the recovery process he went through.

Nadal usually expounds heavily on his answers and tells us what he really believes but today after the fourth question about his knee, he asked reporters nicely, “Please, forget about the knee.” Safe to say he’s tired of the rambling questions about the health and “feeling of his knee on the hardcourt”.

Rafa did feel it necessary to mention how good the knee felt during the final week of his recent South American tour in Acapulco compared to the first week in Chile. While clay is softer on the body’s joints, it was a true test for Rafa with all the sliding and continuous use during those weeks. We are glad he is back and happy to be playing again.

When asked about what he actually did during his 7-month recovery period, Rafa was bright in explaining how he got to enjoy more of his time with his family, friends, and fishing hobby. Also acknowledging his frustrations during that time and missing the Olympics, “I made a decision, (I had to) stick to it, I couldn’t move.”

Everyone is expecting great things from Rafa but he reminded us he doesn’t go into every tournament believing he can win it. He is here at Indian Wells to try his best, as always, and believes, “From my heart, Indian Wells is one of the best tournaments all year.” Welcome back Rafa!