“Destroyed mentally,” Rafael Nadal contemplates his future following his heartbreaking exit at the 2023 Australian Open
Rafael Nadal admits to feeling mentally destroyed as he bows out of the 2023 Australian Open after a devastating loss

Rafael Nadal
Rafael Nadal, the 36-year-old Spaniard professional is widely regarded as one of the greatest tennis players of all time. With 22 Grand Slam titles to his name, Nadal has rightfully earned his place amongst the all-time greats of the sport. The 2023 Australian Open hasn’t been kind to the Spaniard because, unlike last year, Nadal was unable to go all the way and win the title,
After the first game, Nadal already seemed to struggle against Jack Draper in the opening fixture. The Spaniard suffered an injury to the hip when he faced Mackenzie McDonald in the second round of the Australian Open. Nadal lost the game in straight sets and was visibly disappointed as he failed in defending his title and making it Grand Slam number 23.
After the match, Nadal talked about his mental state after sustaining yet another injury. He said, “Sometimes it’s difficult to accept and you feel super tired about all these injuries, now it’s a tough moment and I have to accept and keep going. I can’t complain about my life. I can’t say I’m not destroyed mentally because I would be lying. Hopefully nothing too bad.“
Rafael Nadal receives a standing ovation from the crowd following his Australian Open exit

After another injury scare, Rafael Nadal bows out of the 2023 Australian Open. In a match that was completely dominated by Mackenzie McDonald, Nadal did not stand a chance as he was defeated in straight sets. The lack of rest after Nadal’s first-round encounter against Jack Draper was clearly visible as he struggled against McDonald as well.
After his loss, the crowd stood for the injured Nadal who gave it his all on the court. The Spaniard waved to the packed crowd at the Rod Laver Arena who gave him a standing ovation. Everyone seems to wonder whether Nadal has already played the final match of his career or not.
He hasn’t been the same ever since his abdominal injury at Wimbledon last year, knowing Nadal the Spaniard would be eager to make a comeback. The thought of retirement would not be too far away as well due to his continuous struggle with injuries.
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