Tennis star Stan Wawrinka has shared his predictions for Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic, with doubts around both players at the French Open 2024. Notably, 14-time champion Rafael Nadal has yet to commit to competing in his greatest-ever tournament, and Novak Djokovic quit early from the Italian Open. Their former rival, Wawrinka, calmed concerns that neither of them would be prepared for the marquee event, which is set to start on May 26 in Paris.
The 39-year-old says that Novak Djokovic has a lot of hunger in himself and knows he can push himself so hard to yet again top the charts in the Grand Slam. In addition, Stan admitted that Novak wasn't able to produce the best results in the Italian Open, making him ruled out against Tommy Paul.
“[on Novak) I think it’s still like, of course, he didn’t have the results he wanted the last few weeks but we know how he can push his level and the way he always finds a way to play the best tennis in Grand Slams, especially in five sets also. Of course, I still put him as the favourite at the French Open.”
I think if he can get no injuries the next few months, his level will be back at the highest level: Stan Wawrinka
However, Stan has admitted that Rafael Nadal has been struggling with physical injuries, which can make him ruled out early in the game. The Swiss-born star feels that Nadal has the full potential to be back at the highest level of play. Stan accepted that Nadal's body reaction is set to play a big role.
“[On Rafa] Unless he has a big problem physically and he cannot practice anymore, I think he will play. And also I’m looking forward to what he’s going to do and how his body will react because [I think, and [from] what I can hear, it’s also his body will decide when he will stop. I think if he can get no injuries the next few months, his level will be back at the highest level. So I’m looking forward to what’s going to happen.”