Ramping up preparations for his Australian Open title defence, a refreshed and motivated Rafael Nadal hopes his month-long sojourn down underneath will not be his final.
The Spanish celebrity has arrived in Sydney, the place he takes on world no.14 Cameron Norrie first up within the inaugural United Cup on Saturday.
The blended groups’ occasion will function essential match follow after an injury-plagued again half of 2022 left Nadal beneath his peak health stage and solid doubt over his long-term enjoying future.
All eyes shall be on the 36-year-old subsequent month when he makes an attempt to defend the Open crown he gained final summer time within the absence of nice rival Novak Djokovic.
Whether it is going to be Nadal’s closing look at Melbourne Park stays to be seen.
“Hopefully not. I mean, when you are at the age of 36, you never know when going to be the last one,” Nadal advised reporters on Wednesday.
“It’s obvious, but don’t like to talk about that because I am not in that mood now.
“Just give attention to and attempt to play on the highest stage doable and provides myself the likelihood to maintain being aggressive, to struggle for something.
“That’s my goal now.”
Nine-time Open champion Djokovic presents as one in all Nadal’s foremost challengers at Melbourne Park, a yr after the Serb was deported over his refusal to be vaccinated towards COVID-19.
Australia has since lifted strict guidelines for unvaccinated travellers.
“Novak is here. Good for tennis, good for probably the fans,” Nadal mentioned.
“Let’s see, no? Best players on court always win.”
A highly-anticipated United Cup conflict between Nadal and Nick Kyrgios was scrapped when the native firebrand pulled out of the occasion due to damage.
Nadal will as a substitute tackle Alex de Minaur when Spain meet Australia on Monday.
The 22-time grand slam champion had his first follow session since arriving in Australia on Wednesday and can look to make use of the United Cup as a springboard into the brand new season.
“It’s always important to start well for me, for the confidence,” Nadal mentioned.
“Last few months haven’t been easy for me … just try to have the right practice here before the tournament starts. Then of course, try to help the team.
“Main factor for me now’s get better the optimistic emotions on courtroom, being aggressive.”
