Australian Open: Rafael Nadal says he is confident of a competitive tour

Nadal has been training in the last few days after a Latin American exhibition tour alongside Norwegian third-ranked Casper Ruud.

Published : Dec 24, 2022 11:34 IST

FILE PHOTO: Rafael Nadal celebrates with the trophy after winning the Australian Open men’s singles final.
FILE PHOTO: Rafael Nadal celebrates with the trophy after winning the Australian Open men’s singles final. | Photo Credit: REUTERS
infoIcon

FILE PHOTO: Rafael Nadal celebrates with the trophy after winning the Australian Open men’s singles final. | Photo Credit: REUTERS

Rafa Nadal is aiming to successfully defend his Australian Open title at the first Grand Slam of the year in January after an injury-plagued 2022 despite arriving a bit short of his peak level, the Spaniard said on Friday.

The 36-year-old has been training in the last few days after a Latin American exhibition tour alongside Norwegian third-ranked Casper Ruud.

“I arrived on the 3rd (of December). I spent almost a week doing nothing, which was the right thing to do,” Nadal told Spanish newspaper As.

“I did a bit of physical training, I think I’ll need a few days in Australia. I’m aware that I’m a little bit short, but I’m confident that I’ll be able to pick up the level I need to be competitive in Australia.”

Nadal, who has won a record 22 Grand Slam titles, announced earlier this week the addition of Argentine Gustavo Marcaccio to his staff, an unexpected but necessary move after the departure of veteran coach Francis Roig after 18 years in his team.

Also Read | Swiatek to auction racquet that won her 2022 French, US Open titles for charity

“I turn to Gustavo because Francis decided to take a different path. I’m not very much in favour of making big changes. Francis made a decision, and above all I love him as a friend, practically family,” Nadal said.

Nadal will travel to Sydney on Monday to play in the United Cup mixed tournament in preparation for the Australian Open.

Sign in to unlock all user benefits
  • Get notified on top games and events
  • Save stories to read later
  • Access to comment on every story
  • Sign up / manage to our newsletters with a single click
  • Get notified by email for early bird access to discounts & offers to our products
Sign in

Comments

Comments have to be in English, and in full sentences. They cannot be abusive or personal. Please abide to our community guidelines for posting your comment