Rafael Nadal has stated he can efficiently defend his Australian Open title in January regardless of an injury-plagued again half of 2022 leaving him under his peak stage at current.
The 36-year-old has been coaching in Spain the previous couple of days after a Latin American exhibition tour alongside Norwegian Casper Ruud.
“I arrived on the 3rd (of December). I spent almost a week doing nothing, which was the right thing to do,” Nadal instructed Spanish newspaper As on Friday.
“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 gained a report 22 Grand Slam titles, introduced earlier this week the addition of Argentine Gustavo Marcaccio to his employees, an surprising however needed transfer after the departure of veteran coach Francis Roig after 18 years in his staff.
“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 stated.
Nadal will journey to Sydney on Monday to play within the United Cup combined match in preparation for the Australian Open.
