Cape Town - Fresh off his ninth French Open victory, Rafael Nadal is preparing for Wimbledon, but like most, he has one eye on Brazil.
The 28-year-old gave his views to the press on the World Cup and his home nation's chances while at the Wimbledon warm-up event, the Gerry Weber Open.
Nadal, who's career earnings have breached the $70 million mark, confirmed that he will be keeping an eye on the activities in Brazil despite a tight schedule ahead of the prestigious grass court event.
"For sure I will be watching all of the World Cup," said Nadal before adding, "I love football in general but especially the World Cup, it is a very special event".
The 14-time Grand Slam winner confirmed his support for Spain.
"We've had amazing success over the last six years," but was quick to add that he doesn't see a clear favourite at the 2014 event.
"Even Brazil, playing at home, that does not make them clear favourites."
"There are a few opportunities for other teams," said Nadal.
The clay court maestro praised the German team saying they were a strong team but wondered the effect of losing Marco Reus.
Nadal was confident that Spain will be at the latter stages of the tournament and was hopeful that they would be fighting for the trophy.
Another Nadal tip for potential success in Brazil is Argentina.
"They have a lot of fantastic players especially on the offensive game."
Nadal named France and Belgium as his outsiders for success in an very open 2014 Soccer World Cup.
The 28-year-old gave his views to the press on the World Cup and his home nation's chances while at the Wimbledon warm-up event, the Gerry Weber Open.
Nadal, who's career earnings have breached the $70 million mark, confirmed that he will be keeping an eye on the activities in Brazil despite a tight schedule ahead of the prestigious grass court event.
"For sure I will be watching all of the World Cup," said Nadal before adding, "I love football in general but especially the World Cup, it is a very special event".
The 14-time Grand Slam winner confirmed his support for Spain.
"We've had amazing success over the last six years," but was quick to add that he doesn't see a clear favourite at the 2014 event.
"Even Brazil, playing at home, that does not make them clear favourites."
"There are a few opportunities for other teams," said Nadal.
The clay court maestro praised the German team saying they were a strong team but wondered the effect of losing Marco Reus.
Nadal was confident that Spain will be at the latter stages of the tournament and was hopeful that they would be fighting for the trophy.
Another Nadal tip for potential success in Brazil is Argentina.
"They have a lot of fantastic players especially on the offensive game."
Nadal named France and Belgium as his outsiders for success in an very open 2014 Soccer World Cup.