In Australia expanded last year, Rafael defeated Daniil Medvedev with a score of 3-2 in the final after losing the first 2 sets. This victory helped the King of the ground to become the first player to win 21 Grand Slam.
Nadal participated in Australia expanded 2023 as the No. 1 seed (withdrew by Carlos Alcaraz). The start of the 36 -year -old player for the first Grand Salam this year is not favorable. He lost to Alex De Minaur (Australia) and Cameron Norrie (UK) at the 2023 United Cup. Next, the owner of 22 Grand Salam failed against Hubert Hurkacz in the exercise on Thursday (January 12).
The common point of these non -positive results: The ball used is equipped by Dunlop sportswear manufacturer. Nadal thinks that ball (also the official ball at Australian Open 2023) is really 'problematic'.
“I don't know anymore, but I think the ball has created a problem. They say they are the same but the balls here are less quality. No doubt, those are the balls that have no vortex as usual.
The ball will lose pressure after only a few shots. I will be harder to hit with such a vortex of the ball, ”said Rafael Nadal.
Nadal has a reason to complain about the official ball in Australia expanding 2023 without the necessary vortex. The play style of the King of the Playard is heavily based on high -pitched balls – also known as TopSpin.
However, Rafael Nadal did not back down. He is ready to adapt to the challenges brought by the ball. “I need to adapt to the ball. I think I have practiced enough to be ready for the tournament.”
At 10:30 am today (January 16), Nadal officially entered the 3rd journey to conquer Australian Open in his career. His opponent in the first round is Jack Draper. Draper is 21 years old, British nationality and currently ranked 40th on the ATP rankings.
