Google News Stan Wawrinka drops major praise on Rafael Nadal after stunning return in 2022
by DZEVAD MESIC | VIEW 18898
Stan Wawrinka acknowledged that Rafael Nadal's achievements in 2022 have been absolutely impressive and said that the Spaniard is in "a different league" compared to the rest of the competition. After missing almost the entire second half of the 2021 season due to a foot injury, Nadal started 2022 with 20 consecutive and won three titles in a row.
Nadal winning the Australian Open after a lengthy break will always be remembered as one of the greatest wins of the Spaniard's remarkable career. "No, I think what Rafa has done this year and all his career, like it's amazing to watch as a tennis fan.
You cannot take anything as a player, because he's in [a] different league, always been and always will be," Wawrinka said, via Sportskeeda. "It's always amazing to watch him play, to watch him compete, and to watch him at the top of the game after so many years.
I enjoy watching him. But as I say, as a player, you cannot take anything."
Wawrinka on Roger Federer's comeback
Federer, who hasn't played since last year's Wimbledon, is expected to return to action in late September at the Laver Cup.
"Yeah, it's been too long without him on the tour, so I hope he will come back soon. Of course we all miss him, as again, the fans, the tournaments, the players, we all want to see him be back playing, and hopefully he will soon," Wawrinka said.
Wawrinka was also out for an extended period before returning to action in late March. Last year, Wawrinka underwent two foot surgeries. Even though Wawrinka is 37 and seemingly past his prime, he still loves the game and still wants to play.
On Monday, Wawrinka played his US Open first round match. Down by two sets versus Corentin Moutet, Wawrinka retired the match.