Rafael Nadal has fallen behind Roger Federer in becoming this era’s biggest champion, but that doesn’t mean that he is ready to receive defeat. With his girlfriend Maria Francisca Perello keeping his confidence high, Rafael Nadal is ready to climb back to the top.

According to NDTV, “A defiant Rafael Nadal warned Sunday his career was not over yet as he pledged that "sooner or later" he will be back at the very top of men's tennis.”

While it’s very possible that the former world number one will never rise to the accomplishments that Roger Federer has set, he still remained hopeful for his future in tennis.

He said in the interview, "In the US Open I did better, even if I lost the match (to Fabio Fognini in the round of 32). Tough loss, but I did better. Let's try here to do better again. I think I am working well. I am very motivated to go for that challenge that brings me the chance to overcome a tough situation for me. I love that feeling, and I am going to fight to make that happen."

Some have been saying that Rafael Nadal is letting “defeatism” rule this career, something that his long-time girlfriend Maria Francisca Perello cannot help him with. But the Spaniard is ready to take on the new season with some new energy and take on Roger Federer.

According to Sports Illustrated, “Nadal has been projecting the impression that he himself believes the end is nigh. Not only is this premature for a guy who is still in his 20s; it’s a defeatism that other players are starting to perceive.”

While this is one sports writer’s opinion, there has signs that Rafael Nadal has been feeling that his winning streak and his amassing of grand slam titles were coming to a close.

Other than this sports related news, Rafael Nadal has been grieving due to a death in the family.

According to AP, “Mallorca's regional government says the grandfather of Spanish tennis star Rafael Nadal has died. He was 85.”

Seeing how his girlfriend Maria Francisca Perello has been by his side for decades now, she was a big person to lean on through this family tragedy.

In other news, Rafael Nadal fulfilled Andy Roddick’s prediction said on BBC by not winning "another slam" so far.

Do you think Maria Francisca Perello is working hard to keep her man’s eyes on the prize? Let me know in the comments below!