Rafael Nadal was optimistic about his physical condition heading into the Australian Open after losing to Nick Kyrgios at the Fast4 exhibition event in Sydney.
The Spaniard, who hasn’t played a competitive match since the US Open, pulled out of last week’s Brisbane International due to a left thigh injury.
Despite the withdrawal Nadal continued to practice in Brisbane and today played a Fast4 exhibition in Sydney where he competed for Team World against Team Australia’s Nick Kyrgios.
Although Kyrgios won 4-0 3-4 5-3, the former world number one remained optimistic about competing at the Australian Open next week, “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,” Nadal said.
“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.”
His Australian opponent also praised the legendary Spaniard as Kyrgios looks for a deep run in Melbourne next week at his home slam, “He’s a great champion,” the world number 51 said.
“It’s good to have him back, good to have him healthy and I’d love to see him do well at the Australian Open.”
Should Nadal compete in Melbourne next week he will be aiming to win his second Australian Open and his first since 2009, where he beat Roger Federer in the final.
