Rafael Nadal played only two matches in the second part of 2021. The Spanish giant made a perfect return this year, embracing his career-best start and conquering three titles in a row. Rafa prevailed over Daniil Medvedev in Melbourne for his first Australian Open title in 13 years.
Dealing with foot pain, Nadal needed injections ahead of every match in Paris. Still, he delivered seven victories and secured his 14th Roland Garros and the 22nd Major! Rafa was the year-end no. 1 favorite ahead of the second part of the season, but it was not to be for him.
The veteran reached the Wimbledon semi-final, seeking his first All England Club trophy since 2010. However, he experienced a seven-millimeter abdominal tear and withdrew following an epic quarter-final victory over Taylor Fritz.
Rafa would play only nine matches in the rest of the season, losing a chance to become world no. 1 and barely finishing inside the top-2.
Rafael Nadal has played only nine matches after Wimbledon.
Nadal lost to Borna Coric in Cincinnati before reaching the US Open fourth round.
Frances Tiafoe proved too strong, delivering Nadal’s first Major loss of the season and spoiling his no. 1 chances. Rafa stayed away from the court for two months, still struggling with an abdominal injury. The Spaniard returned at the Paris Masters and the ATP Finals and experienced four consecutive losses for the first time in 13 years!
Nadal arrived in Sydney on Wednesday, eager for a fresh start in 2023. Nadal will lead Spain at the United Cup, facing Cameron Norrie and Alex de Minaur in the group stage. A 22-time Major winner described the second part of the season as tough, feeling motivated to change that in the upcoming weeks.
“The beginning of the season is always exciting. It’s a new thing for us all, and we all have doubts about how it will go. I have many seasons behind me, but the beginnings are always different. I’m motivated to make a good start and gain confidence.
The past few months have been tough for me, and I want to prepare well in Sydney before the tournament starts. I want to help my country, recover the positive feelings on the court and play competitive tennis. I’m ready to make that happen, and we will see.
The main goal for me is to reach a competitive level. My first match is against Cameron Norrie, and I’m focused on that. We will try to win the tie and gain momentum ahead of the next clash versus Australia,” Rafael Nadal said.
