Google News Rafael Nadal on if this is his last trip to Australia: You never know, hopefully not
by DZEVAD MESIC | VIEW 5561
Rafael Nadal acknowledged that he can't predict the future but expressed hope to return to Australia in 2024. Nadal, 36, landed in Australia this week as he is representing Spain at the inaugural United Cup. During his pre-tournament press conference in Sydney, Nadal was asked whether this is his last trip to Australia.
“Last trip to Australia? No. As a professional, you never know, hopefully not. I mean, when you are at the age of 36 you never know when it’s going to be the last one. It’s obvious, but I don’t like to talk about that because I am not in that mood now.
I’m just focused on trying to play at the highest level possible and give myself a possibility to keep being competitive, to fight for anything. That’s my goal now, I’m not thinking about it being my last time here, if that’s the last time, let’s try to enjoy it as much as possible and let’s try to create something special.
I am happy doing what I am doing. I’m looking forward to keep doing this," Nadal said, as quoted on Eurosport.
Nadal hoping to defend his Australian Open title
After missing almost the entire second half of the 2021 season, Nadal's career was in jeopardy.
But Nadal decided to fly to Australia and start his 2022 there. In the end, it became one of the best stories of the season - Nadal returned from injury by winning back-to-back titles at the Melbourne Summer Set and Australian Open.
In 2022, Nadal captured just his second Australian Open title. Now, Nadal is preparing to defend his Australian Open crown. But this time, winning the Australian Open will likely be tougher as record nine-time Australian Open champion Novak Djokovic is returning to the tournament.
After landing in Australia, Nadal said he is happy for Djokovic as he believes it is better for tennis to have the Serb competing on the biggest stage.