Nadal Makes Winning Return With Victory in Brisbane
Playing in what could possibly be the last year of his career, Rafael Nadal got off to a good start as he is competing in the Brisbane International in Australia.
Nadal advanced to the second-round as he defeated Austria’s Dominic Thiem 7-5, 6-1, marking his first tour win since the opening round of the 2023 Australian Open.
“Today is honestly an emotional and important day for me after probably one of the toughest years of my tennis career, without a doubt,” said Nadal. “I had the chance to come back after a year and play in front of an amazing crowd, and play, I think, at a very positive level.”
Nadal and Thiem traded games throughout the early parts of the match, with the opening set staying on serve until 6-5, when the Spaniard snagged the crucial break of serve to win the first 7-5.
From there, Nadal continued to seize the momentum, breaking Thiem in the second game of the second set, and once more in the sixth game to quell any thoughts of a comeback from Thiem.
“The first set was equal, with both of us serving well and more or less winning on serve,” Nadal added. “I was able to have that break at 6-5, so that makes the difference. Honestly, I know Dominic has gone through some hard times with injuries, too, so I’m happy to see him on court and I wish him the very best for the season.”
Up next for Nadal will be Australian wild card Jason Kubler, who advanced after Aslan Karatsev had to retire from the match after each player took a set.
No matter the result early on, Nadal is grateful just to be back competing on tour.
“I had the chance to receive thousands of messages during this year and having great people next to me every single day makes the difference, without a doubt,” said Nadal. “I missed being healthy, I missed feeling competitive and playing in front of full crowds like this.”
