Rafael Nadal has adamantly opposed suggestions he should follow rivals Novak Djokovic, Roger Federer and Andy Murray in hiring a former champion coach.
Toni Nadal, Rafa's uncle and only coach, said he would not oppose hiring an additional coach if his nephew's struggles continue in 2016.
Nadal: Forehand, Calm Nerves Key to Comeback
Speaking to the AFP ahead of Rafa's opening-round match in Beijing, Uncle Toni said he would be open to coaching or technical changes if the 14-time Grand Slam champion does not have a bounce-back season in 2016.
"It's true that this year he's going a little down but I am sure the comeback of Rafael is coming soon," Toni Nadal told AFP. "Maybe if next year Rafael is playing not too good, then I think he can think about some changes in his game or in his team."
Rafael Nadal has repeatedly said he will not hire a new coach or a part-time coach to aid Uncle Toni. Rafa reiterated his position to the media at last month's US Open.
“I always believed that when I am playing bad, when I am not winning, you don't have to find excuses outside or reasons outside," Rafael Nadal said. "You have to look at yourself in the mirror and say, That's my fault. That's the real thing. It's not the fault of other people."
Nadal says any changes he makes will be "to change myself" and not his support team.
“I had an amazing career with this team. I believe in my team," Nadal said in New York. "We are working a lot to find the right way. I think we are in the good way. I don't know what's going on in the future, but the real thing is if I have to change something it is myself, not the people around me.
"If I am able to change myself, to play again with confidence, to play again with less nerves that I played for a lot of moments this year, I am able to touch the ball the way that I am touching the ball this week of practice before the US Open, I will be again where I want to be. So is not a question of coach. Is not a question of physiotherapist or physical trainer. It is a question of myself. I am really decided to work hard to find my way.”
Photo credit: China Open