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Carnaval in Rio
by MAC


Rafa and his team landed in Rio on February 11th.


He was out on the practice courts the next day and then into a pre-tournament press conference.


According to this article on the ATP website he has concerns about the temperature and doesn't know if he's ready to win.


"I start the tournament from the first round… the conditions will be extreme; players are dangerous. The first round will be tough with any opponent."

"I’m feeling well physically… I don’t know if I’m ready to win here. I’m going to try to be ready for Tuesday – to be competitive; to have good chances – and after that we’ll see what’s going on.
"

On Sunday night, though, thoughts of tennis were forgotten as he joined in the Rio Carnaval at the Sambodromo longside Gustavo Keurten and David Ferrer.


Sadly, there was only a tiny bit of samba from Rafa. Must have been because of the rain.


This is what he said afterwards, according to the ATP.

"It was the first time we had the chance to enjoy the Rio Carnaval and it has been an unforgettable experience. There was unbelievable positive energy [from] everyone. Everyone was singing and dancing; it was fantastic for me to have the chance to enjoy this unique experience."

Good luck this week, Rafa.