Nadal Looks Rusty, Federer Arrives in Montreal

As expected, Rafael Nadal has arrived in Montreal for the Rogers Cup, an event that he won last year.  The Montreal Gazette reports that Rafa looked quite rusty during his practice but I’m not too worried at all.  Yes, I realize he’s still recovering from his knee injury but I think that he’s been really smart about it and even skipped Wimbledon to give himself time to heal.

image: Newscom

I hate when people get all jittery during a player’s first day back at a major event following an injury – it puts too much pressure on them.  Rafa could have been jet-lagged and his regular coach (and uncle), Toni Nadal, is not with him.

Apparently, he seemed a little agitated but his knees weren’t taped which, I guess, doesn’t mean too much since he reportedly stayed stationary for the majority of the practice.  Either way, I think it’s great to see him back on the court for the first time since the French Open when many were shocked to see him ousted by Robin Soderling.

Meanwhile, tournament officials are practically drooling over the fact that Roger Federer will be playing in the Roger’s Cup.  With Nadal winning this thing last year and being hampered by his achy knees, Federer might because to put some more distance between him and his biggest rival.

Needless to say, it’s going to be a very interesting tournament, no matter what happens.