Rising French star Arthur Fils’ career is on an upward trajectory. The teen has even made it to the finals of the Next Gen ATP Finals in Jeddah. Irrespective of the outcome, his future seems bright, and he has already caught the eye of tennis legend Rafael Nadal.
Nadal had been sidelined for the entirety of the season due to his injury. He played just four matches before he had to withdraw from the Australian Open after tearing his psoas muscles. And now, after months of rehabilitation and training, he is ready to make a comeback.
Fils revealed that he will join Rafa in Kuwait to train with him for a week in December. Nadal is set to travel to the country to prepare for the Australian Open, despite lingering concerns among fans. It will be a huge opportunity for Arthur to learn from the master himself.
Rafa Nadal invited Arthur Fils to train with him for a week in Kuwait, starting December 8:
“He very kindly invited me. I’m going to give it my all. I’m going to try not to get too carried away on his forehands (smiles). I’m going to get the most out of it.” (via @QuentinMoynet)… pic.twitter.com/bwLOr7v3xZ
— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) December 1, 2023
Rafa has been an inspiration to many, and his ability to rise in the face of adversity is extraordinary. Arthur Fils has also been vocal in appreciating Nadal’s fighting spirit and his game. “My idol was Roger. But the more we grow up, the more we appreciate watching Rafa play, his fighting spirit, his game,” said Fils.
Nadal took to social media to announce that he will play in Brisbane to kick off his return to the sport. The Spaniard’s absence left a void, but there is much to look forward to now. As for Fils, he has one wish for himself next year.
Arthur Fils has one wish when it comes to Rafael Nadal
The French sensation has enjoyed success on the tour. However, Arthur has one wish when it comes to the Spanish maestro. Like many others before him, Arthur wants to defeat Nadal at the French Open.
Nadal is the undisputed champion of the clay court, and Roland Garros is his favorite hunting ground. In his career, Rafa has won 14 French Open titles, the most by any player in the history of the sport.
With Nadal set to return in January, Fils feels he is more than capable of going toe-to-toe with him. Maybe not in the first round, but if I can play him in the final at Roland, that suits me. If, at the age of 19, I can stop him in Roland, that would be nice,” he said (via L’Equipe).
Rafael Nadal’s news has elated the fans, who cannot wait to watch him play again. As for Arthur Fils, this is just the beginning of a long journey. He will play against Hamad Medjedovic in the final of the Next Gen ATP Finals.