Melbourne Summer Set, Australia
It wasn’t his best performance; however, considering that Rafael Nadal has not played competitively since August 2021, it was not too bad. Nadal’s season got off to an interesting start as he tested positive for the coronavirus, which left many wondering if he would make it to Australia.
Emil Ruusuvuori Had His Chances
It is never easy for a lower ranked player to fully believe and take advantage of an opportunity to defeat a much higher ranked player. However, this was one of those golden opportunities that rarely comes around. Sadly, the Finnish player squandered the opportunity. Nadal was clearly not at his best. Ruusuvuori had several opportunities to break his serve as Nadal made many errant shots. Many of Nadal’s shots were also loopy and landed very short in the court. The Finn failed to capitalize on his third break opportunity and promptly lost his serve. One break chance was all Nadal needed to secure the first set 6-4.
The Rust Was Apparent In Set Two
Just when you thought Nadal had shaken off the rust and found his game, he hit a speed bump. At 5-3 up and serving for the match, the nerves became apparent. Nadal made a slew of errors and Ruusuvuori got his first break of the match. Yet, Nadal did not get too discouraged, and he went right back to work. With the pressure squarely on his young shoulders, Ruusuvuori folded. At 5-6 down and serving to stay in the match, the Finn was broken. A forehand error long and Nadal broke for the second time in the set. Not at his best, but Nadal secured the straight sets victory, 4-6, 5-7.
Rafael Nadal To Contest First Final In 2022
Since 2005, the Spaniard has won at least two tournaments a year. 2021, 2020, and 2016 were the three years he won only two titles since he won his first and only title in 2004. Although only a 250 event, Nadal would love to win the title going into the first major of the season. It has been more than eight months since Nadal got to a final and it is not a guaranteed victory for the Spaniard. He will have to play a lot better if he wants to defeat the brash young American, who has a big serve and is not afraid of playing at the net. Currently ranked 112, Maxime Cressy came through the qualifying rounds, so he is match tough and ready to challenge Nadal.
Embed from Getty ImagesOther Interesting Match Results Down Under
Gael Monfils seems ready to compete and has produced some quality tennis in all his matches. He has dominated his opponents in all second sets played and will contest the final in Adelaide. World number one, Ashleigh Barty, is into the final as well. Sadly, Naomi Osaka withdrew prior to her semifinal match due to an abdominal injury. She hopes to be ready to defend her title.
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