The Spaniard has already defied the odds in Australia and could well do so again. He had to shut down his 2021 season in the summer with a foot injury, having a procedure that left him on crutches. But he returned Down Under to start 2022 and went undefeated, winning the Melbourne ATP 250 and his 21st Grand Slam title at the Australian Open.
It will be a much harder feat this time around, given that Nadal is now in his late thirties and has spent a whole year away from competition. It’s unchartered territory for the 92-time title winner, who took to Instagram to share his lack of expectations. “We’ve maintained the work spirit and hope and I think I am ready,” he said.
“I don’t know at what level, I don’t know what to expect, I have no idea, but I don’t care right now. I’m just happy to be back and with great excitement to make the effort that is necessary to have fun and I believe that I will be competitive.”
