After withdrawing from last week’s Brisbane International with a thigh strain, Rafael Nadal survived two sets of Fast4 action, plus a mini tie-breaker, against Nick Kyrgios in Sydney on Monday night. The 17-times grand slam champion lost 4-0 3-4 5-3 and was on court for barely an hour, but was nevertheless chuffed after a wretched four months with injury.
After the match, Rafa said:
The first set was quick. That’s how it works, this Fast4, and especially playing an unbelievable talent, a player like Nick.
(But) I was there. I need to (find) a little bit more rhythm. I think it was a good start for me, a good comeback to the action in front of a fantastic crowd here in Sydney. I really enjoyed it a lot, playing tonight here. I’m happy to be back on court and then happy that I’m healthy again.
In the other singles match, Milos Raonic beat John Millman 4-1 4-3. In the doubles, Rafa and Milos defeated the Aussie pair 4-1, 4-1, 5-4 and secure the win for Team World.
Source: AAP
Congrats-stay healthy. Enjoy the campaign down under.
I hope you are ok Rafa Vamosssssss all the way is time we miss you on the tennis court.🎾🎾🎾😘😘😘❤️❤️❤️🇺🇸🙏🙏🙏
Good job. Hopefully you are ok. Vamos Rafa <3
Nice work Rafa. Your time on court today should make you feel good. Wishing you the very best for an injury free AO campaign next week.
Fingers crossed for next week. Every time I look, someone else is struggling with an injury – yesterday it was Jo Konta and today it’s Sascha. Please all be OK!