Rafael Nadal completed his ATP Finals marketing campaign on a optimistic word as he snapped a four-match shedding streak with victory over Casper Ruud.
There was nothing to play for when it comes to the event, with Nadal already eradicated after defeats by Taylor Fritz and Felix Auger-Aliassime, and Ruud assured to win the group to progress to the semi-finals.
But, other than additional rating factors and prize cash, Nadal’s 7-5 7-5 victory additionally provides him one thing to hold onto as he turns his ideas to getting ready for subsequent season.
The 36-year-old advised Amazon Prime Video: “I have been practising well just probably not enough matches to be at the level I needed to be, not enough confidence after six tough months.
“But that is how it’s. Accept that issues did not go the way in which that I wished. At least I completed with a optimistic victory. It’s essential. I’m completely satisfied for that.”
Wins have been hard to come by for Nadal since the French Open but 2022 has still been one of the most remarkable seasons of the Spaniard’s career.
Having arrived in Australia in January wondering whether a chronic foot condition might spell the end, he went on to win the Australian Open and French Open in the same year for the first time and his tally of 22 grand slam titles is more than any man in history.
“I can not ask for extra – 2022, even when it has been a troublesome final six months, two grand slams, ending the yr in my highest level on the rating, I can not complain in any respect,” mentioned Nadal.
“At my age, with the ability to obtain and be aggressive means loads to me. For 2023, let’s attempt to have the right preparation, work the suitable means after which begin the season with the suitable power and the suitable perspective that I have to be aggressive from the start. I’m enthusiastic about it.”
In the late singles match, American Fritz beat Canadian Auger-Aliassime 7-6 (7-4) 6-7 (7-5) 6-2 to progress from the Green Group together with Ruud.
