Tennis News: Rafael Nadal explains why he lost the second round of the Paris Masters

Tommy Paul climbed to his highest ATP rank of number 28 in September 2022 and bested the world number two 3-6, 7-6(4) 6-1. Rafael Nadal took a brief hiatus after facing an early exit at the US Open 2022 and then competed in the ATP 1000 event. 

Without any hopes of reclaiming the top spot in ATP singles, he returned to tennis ahead of the ATP Finals in November. However, his shock defeat at the Paris Masters has decreased his chances of finishing the year as the number one player.

In an interview, Rafael Nadal said, "I am always eager to play, even though the last couple of months have been hard."

"I was not able to spend much of my days on tour in the last five months, let alone competing; I was not even able to practice tennis on the court, and that's what I need," he shared.

Rafael Nadal revealed that he lacked good practice and was not fit to compete in the ATP Finals. After his staggering US Open defeat, he played alongside Roger Federer in the last match of his career to bid farewell to the Swiss legend. 

He confirmed his decision to take a break after that, citing personal reasons.

The world's no. 2 is still being prepared for Turin

Rafael Nadal was bested by Tommy Paul 3-6, 7-6, 6-1 in two hours and 32 minutes. The Spaniard returned to the court after two months having been sidelined due to an abdominal injury he sustained at Wimbledon. 

Although he threw in a challenge at the start, he couldn't finish the match in straight sets and was exhausted by the decider. He slowed down, and his opponent consequently broke him three times.

Tommy Paul made deliberate strokes and attacked the net. Soon after, he capitalised on Rafael Nadal's unforced errors (35 in total) and imposed a decider. The Spaniard couldn't overcome Tommy Paul's aggressive approach. 

Rafael Nadal started to fumble in the second set tiebreak and netted a routine forehand at the beginning of the final set. He made a volleying error in game five and lost his serve again. 

Tommy Paul broke Rafael Nadal one last time at 5-1 and finished the match with a volley winner to pocket a monumental victory. 

Rafael Nadal is planning for the Race to Turin to pursue his first ATP Finals trophy. If Rafael Nadal's form improves, he can win matches in the ATP Finals. 

"I'm excited about playing in Turin, even though the last couple of months have not been perfect. I will go to Turin after a good year. I have nothing to lose and will try my best," Rafael Nadal said.