Rafael Nadal believes he is “in good shape” leading into next week’s Australian Open, despite his 2023 season getting off to a sluggish start.
Nadal lost both of his singles matches at the United Cup, including an upset defeat to hometown hero Alex de Minaur.
Following the 22-time grand slam champion’s second straight loss, concerns began to be raised over his fitness.
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In commentary for Nine, two-time Australian Open winner Jim Courier, suggested that Nadal’s wider serve in his defeat to de Minaur could be a sign that the 36-year-old is not yet fully recovered from the abdominal injury that ruined the back half of his 2022 season.
However, after declaring he wasn’t battling an injury in Sydney, Nadal again assured the press in Melbourne that his preparation is adequate to push for a consecutive title Down Under.
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“It’s true that the last couple of tournaments I wasn’t able to play my standards and here at the beginning of the season I lost two matches in Sydney, but honestly, I am not unhappy with the preparation,” he said on Tuesday.
“I think I’m in good shape. You need to demonstrate that in matches … but I’m confident that if I am able to have this last week of positive practice, why not?”
Becoming a first-time father in October, Nadal did not feel the new responsibilities of fatherhood had adversly impacted his performance.
“It’s about adapting to this new part of my life in all ways,” he said.
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“You need a little bit more organisation than before without a doubt.
“But it’s the first time that happens in my life.
“So I need some time to adjust to all the things that are going to help me to stay the same as before, but I think I have all the things around me that help me to keep going without problems.”
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All of Rafael Nadal’s grand slam triumphs, in order
