Uncle Toni: 'In 2006 Roger Federer played a little different against Rafael Nadal'

• Tennis News
• Roger Federer

Rafael Nadal's uncle and former coach Toni has stopped following his nephew a few years ago to devote himself to the growth of young people in the Academy in Mallorca. The baton has passed into the hands of Carlos Moya, who contributed to the recovery of the Spaniard champion after the profound difficulties accused in 2015 and 2016.

The two totaled the beauty of five Slams in just three seasons, in addition to going to one length of distance from Roger Federer's all-time record. Rafa could hunt for the historic link to Roland Garros this year, which was moved in late September due to the COVID-19 emergency.

In a recent interview with Eurosport, uncle Toni revealed the matches he will always remember as Nadal's most epic performances. “In Rome, Federer played a little different against us and in Rome it was easier for Roger Federer because the court is smaller, and the ball bounces a bit more.

Then the ball goes a little faster and that’s difficult. I remember that Federer had 2 match points. One not too difficult, but he made an error with the forehand. But always, when we play against Federer, we know – at least, that’s what I said to Rafael – we have a way to beat Federer: play 2,3,4 times with a high ball over his backhand and then you can go forward and take the lead.

I knew that the final would be very difficult, but I thought Rafael was a little better than Roger Federer. Even more in 2006 Roland Garros" - he said.