Despite losing to Dominic Thiem, Rafa Nadal was very hopeful about his options at the ATP Finals and with confidence through the roof after having played a great game against the Austrian. This was expressed in the telematic press conference from the O2 Arena.
Conclusions: “It was a great tennis match, decided by a few details that I missed, but for which I have no bad feelings. I think my tennis level has been very high, so I think my chances of making a very good result are greater than two days ago ”.
The tie-breaks against Thiem: “I don't know why I have lost five tie-breaks in a row against Thiem, I haven't analyzed it. I have not been able to win some important points and that has been the difference. I am more confident than two days ago because of my tennis level. I have options ”.
Surfaces: “Although I have never won here, I don't want to be arrogant, but I think I can win on any surface. I have not done it here and it is what it is, I have no problems with that. I work to give myself opportunities. Playing like this I think I'm going to have them ”.
Thiem Strikes: “He plays all the shots very well, not just backhand. It doesn't hurt me anymore like this. I don't think he played better than me, although he deserved it ”.
Analysis: “A good tennis match, of a very high level, and the truth is that I am sad that I did not take the first set with 5-2 in the tie-break and serving well as I was doing. I pushed him to the limit and he was able to play very well. I lacked some small detail to take the game. This happens when you play against the best in the world. You have to congratulate him. How I feel? My tennis level has been increasing and I have played better than in the first match. I see myself with more options to do something important now, because I have played at a great level. I am on the right track. The feeling is positive. I have enjoyed playing, I have competed to the end. “
Demerit ?: “I don't think they were my mistakes, I failed at a set point with a set point back to the net, I could see something else done, but with the same thing I did, more than 50% of the time I win the set. He played well and well at a key moment. He gave me an incredible cut backhand passing, which is not logical. He had those match-points. And I have saved them. Losing with him doesn't hurt that much, because he's a great guy and a tireless worker. “
Sorting options: “I have taken steps forward. I can stay out, but also qualify. I'm ready, anything can happen ”.