Rafael Nadal sweats his way past Jack Draper at Australian Open Round 1
The defending champion gave his campaign an excellent start by defeating the Brit in a match that went on to the fourth set.
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Rafael Nadal after winning first round match (Image: Getty Images)
Two-time Australian Open champion Rafael Nadal started his campaign at the Melbourne Park successfully. In his first-round clash against Jack Draper, defending champion Nadal overpowered the Briton 7-5, 2-6, 6-4, 6-1. With the emphatic win, Nadal silenced his critics pointing out his poor start to the season.
The British opponent showed some resistance at the beginning of the battle by clinching the second set from the 36-year-old. With this Draper became only the second player to take a set from Nadal in the first round of the Australian Open. There was a minor rain scare too after the second set which could have forced the match to go indoors. Fact is, in terms of fitness and cramping, Draper came short.
In the end, Nadal did what he does best. After losing the second set, he seized every opportunity that presented itself at the majestic Rod Laver Arena under a clear blue Melbourne sky. When Nadal scored the winning point, crowds roared in applause and in awe of the 22-time Grand Slam champion.
With the victory, Nadal found the much-needed rhythm and rhythm for the season’s first Grand Slam after a sketchy start in the United Cup. The ‘King of Clay’ has gotten back into ominous form and looks ready to defend his title on the hard courts Down Under.
Rafael Nadal feels emotional after the victory
Nadal looked content after the game. “Most emotional tournament of my career, I’m super happy to be back here in Australia one more time,” he said making it clear what the tournament means for him.
“I know it’s my 19th season on the professional Tour. I’m very excited about this new beginning, just super happy to be back here in Rod Laver Arena with a victory that I needed. The last couple of months haven’t been easy for me, but hopefully, this victory is going to help me,” the 36-year-old continued his excitement.
Moving into the second round of the Australian Open Nadal will face Mackenzie McDonald. The first round in Melbourne win extended Nadal’s tally to 77 with fans expecting many more to come in this fortnight. Nadal, for his part, will do everything to immortalize himself as the greatest of the game in the coming few days.
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Abhinavendu Singh
(290 Articles Published)