Rafael Nadal will realise goal to recover old form despite struggles: Albert Costa

Former Spanish pro tennis player Albert Costa believes Rafael Nadal will get back to his old form despite his recent struggles.

During the presentation of the ATP 500 Barcelona Open, which is set to take place in April, Costa claimed he contacts Nadal often and that the world No. 5 is working daily to improve his game. Costa, Barcelona Open’s director and Spain’s former Davis Cup team captain, is convinced Nadal will get back to his winning ways and realise his goal of once again being in top shape.

“He's overcome injuries, last year he lacked confidence and in 2016, he has not had big results,” Costa told Spanish media outlet Mundo Deportivo. “But I have spoken to him and he is fighting to recover his form, and I am sure he will improve his tennis and will realise his goal.”

Nadal has struggled to capitalise on his game this season, thus far failing to win all tournaments he joined. The alarming part is that the 14-time Grand Slam has suffered all of his losses against lower ranked opponents, which has led to concerns about whether a coaching change is needed.

However, Nadal’s coach and uncle Toni insisted that Rafael’s poor performance on the hard court was brought on by the change of the style of tennis.

“I've clear in my mind the reasons why Nadal stopped to win like he did before. Tennis is faster,” Toni told El Espanol. “I do not know if Rafa can adapt to this new tennis, but we are there.”

The 29-year-old Mallorcan has been preparing for his next tournament at Indian Wells, which kick starts on Mar. 10. It would give Nadal a chance to claim his first ATP Tour-level title of the year, although the road to victory will arguably be tough, with top players like Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray set to play at the tournament.