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Rafael Nadal believes that Nick Kyrgios is a legitimate Australian Open title contender, as the Spaniard suggested that the Australian could probably win any Grand Slam outside of the French Open. Kyrgios, who opted out of the French Open in 2022, was runner-up at Wimbledon and also reached the quarterfinals at the US Open.
During his pre-tournament press conference at the United Cup, Nadal was asked about Kyrgios' chances at the Australian Open. "I know that he doesn't like playing Roland Garros very much. It's the only tournament that he doesn't seem to like playing very much.
The rest of the tournaments, he played the final at Wimbledon, and in New York he was close to the final I think, with a very good opportunity. positive. He can win in any tournament he plays. He has all the talent, the weapons to beat any player.
Of course he can," Nadal said of Kyrgios. Nadal, who turns 36 in June, had another injury-plagued season in 2022. Still, it looks like he'll play at least one more season on Tour. When asked about his future in tennis, Nadal suggested that he is taking it day by day.
"As a professional you never know. I hope not. When you're 36, you never know when it's going to be the last. It's obvious, but I don't like to talk about it because I'm not in the mood right now. I just focus on trying to play at my best.
possible level and give me the chance to continue being competitive, to fight for everything", explained Nadal.
Rafa Nadal is already in Melbourne
In remarks to the Sydney Morning Herald, former world number 1 in doubles Paul McNamee has expressed concern over Rafael Nadal with ten days to go before the start of the Australian Open where he will attempt to defend his title.
“His abdominal injury is believed to be affecting his ball throwing, but what worries me the most is that he recently admitted he needs to be a bit quicker physically. Coverage has always been a major asset for Nadal but, cruelly to say, I fear he has lost a yard.
So as time goes on, and to be fair, at 36 he is only a year older than Djokovic, winning the Australian Open will be much more difficult for Nadal. As the defending champion and world number 2, he is certainly in the running. However, for Aussies wanting to see the great Spaniard, I suggest enjoying it while you can."