Very emotional, says Rafael Nadal, as he reflects on 2022 Australian Open title.
Rafael Nadal recollects his last outing in the Melbourne Park as a very emotional one.
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Rafael Nadal
The Australian Open men’s champion, Rafael Nadal, recalls his victory here last year as a very emotional one. The 36-year-old Spaniard won an epic final in the Rod Laver Arena to clinch only his second Australian Open title. With this win over the Russian, Daniil Medvedev, he surpassed Roger Federer to win the most Grand Slam titles in men’s singles.
Rafa made an unbelievable comeback from two sets down to win the finals in a five-set thriller. He claimed his 21st Grand Slam title by winning 2-6, 6-7, 6-4, 6-4, 7-5 at the Rod Laver Arena last year. This five hours and 24 minutes long final are said to be one of the best Australian Open finals that have ever happened. This victory was special for the former world No. 1 as he returned from a long injury break.
Speaking in the pre-event press conference he said “So what happened last year is in my heart and memories forever. It was one of the most emotional victories of my tennis career without a doubt. A lot of emotions coming back from a long injury and the love of the people were left here at the Rod Laver Arena in that final has been unforgettable for me.”
Rafael Nadal talks about his first opponent, Jack Draper
The defending champion starts his campaign against Britain’s young player, Jack Draper, in the first round. When asked about his first opponent, Rafa praised Jack for the way he’s shining in recent times. He also felt that it will probably be one of his toughest first rounds. He also said Jack is a young, strong, and powerful player who has come up the rankings quickly.
However, Rafa is not ready to give up without a fight, as he said that although it’s a challenge for him, he is going to take a chance against Jack. When asked if Rafa had seen Jack play before, he said he had and that he knew how he played. He also accepted that he was vulnerable right now and added that he was humble enough to accept it.
However, the No. 1 seed knows he has not had the best start to the season, losing a couple of matches in a row, but he still backs himself to play well. Tennis fans believe that both are naturally strong players, and it will be an exciting context to watch. However, they want the Spaniard to start the tournament with a strong win that gives Rafa the confidence he needs.
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Santhosh Tenneti
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