Nadal: “We are not a risk to the people of Australia”

The Spanish ATP Cup team met for the first time in Melbourne to meet the formal press conference before the start of the country competition, which will start this Tuesday in Melbourne. Nadal, Bautista, Carreño and Granollers appeared in uniform along with the captain and coach of Castellón, Pepe Vendrell. Nadal was the one who spoke the most and among other questions, he had to answer the thorny question about the suspicion that some Australians showed about the landing of the tennis world in their country, which curiously will be the first rival of the Navy in the tournament. “I am not a specialist in this, but in my humble opinion, I believe that we are not a risk to the population. The country is safe and I am grateful that they have received us. There are no cases here. I don't think we are going to create a big problem in the country. I think all the necessary measures are taken to avoid that, “said the Spaniard after explaining the reasons why he thinks that.

“I can only congratulate the country for the incredible efforts it made to contain the virus here. It is one of the best examples in the world of how to do things right in this particular case. I think that's why they will probably take all the measures that the country needs to be one hundred percent sure having us playing tennis here. “. Rafa stressed that the tennis players have not failed to comply with the rules: “We did tests for 14 days in a row, the PCR, and then the players who came on a plane with someone contaminated, have been in a hard quarantine for 15 days, only in the hotel room”.

In line with this topic, Nadal was asked about the Tokyo Games and the possibility that you also have to quarantine to participate. “I am nobody to give an opinion on the situation in Japan. What we have to do is follow the instructions that people who really know give us. Whether or not it is done or whether there will be quarantine is not known. If there is it would be difficult to fit it with our calendar. Everybody wants to play in Tokyo, that is clear ”.

And finally, he explained his feelings about the very different and good situation in Australia regarding the coronavirus: “It was nice to be able to play again with the stands full. Without that, sport loses a lot of incentive. This is an island and the protection has been drastic, with many efforts and for a long time. They have been able to do better than other countries, including ours. Arriving and seeing normal life is the result of great efforts over many months. It gives healthy envy. It is up to us to go through these sections, to be responsible as a society to stop this difficult time throughout Europe. To be able to enjoy a life like the one we were used to. There are so many deaths, infected and people suffering … ”.

Australia, a tough battle

Regarding the purely sporting aspect, Vendrell warned that the tie against Australia (Tuesday at 07:30 on Movistar +) “will be a tough battle, like last year.” “They play at home with the support of the public, but we are excited to be here and be able to play against the hosts. It will be a demanding challenge, all four are well prepared to overcome the series.” “We are a good team, with great players and different options. Everyone is ready to play and at a very competitive level. Now, let's see what the captain decides, “Nadal said. “We have all trained a lot in the last few months. Now is the time to compete. I think everyone has done their job well and we are prepared, “said Bautista.

Carreño said that he feels “lucky to be part of the team.” “On the other hand, I have two of the best players in the world ahead of me. If they play, I don't, but I will have options and it would be a great opportunity to start the season. If I get the opportunity, I will do my best.” “I know that the doubles is also an important point. Sometimes it is decisive. But I think that in Spain we have many options to play. We will see when we have to play this final point and which players decide to put Captain”Granollers noted.