Nadal among `favourites` for French Open, says Sanchez Vicario

Johannesburg [South Africa], Apr 20 (ANI): Spanish legend Arantxa Sanchez Vicario believes that fourteen-time Grand Slam champion Rafael Nadal remains among the favourites for this year's French Open. Sanchez Vicario, who is in New Delhi, however maintained that Nadal's fitness would be the key at the season's second Grand Slam, starting next month. "Well, definitely. I think that he is one of the favourites to win again at Roland Garros," Sport24 quoted Sanchez Vicario as saying. "Hope he is not injured. So that's the most important (thing) for him in order to compete well again," added the four-time Grand Slam-winner. The Spaniard, who missed last year's French Open during an injury-hit 2016, recovered to stun many observers by reaching January's Australian Open final against Swisss legend Roger Federer, where he lost in five sets to his long-time rival. Later on at the Miami Open also, Nadal had to face the defeat against Federer in the final of the tournament as well as at Indian Wells. The 45-year-old was also full of praise for the Swiss legend, saying, "He has become stronger. His backhand is powerful and he is winning many points there. And he has that mentality in the game, he is a champion." "It's great for sports, and for tennis, to see him doing so well again and winning Grand Slams at that age. He is a legend and a champion," she added. (ANI)