Rafa Nadal, Australian adventure begins with defeat

3-6 6-3 6-4 the score in favor of the world number 12

Returning to the court a month and a half after his last appearance on the circuit – in early December, the Mallorcan had participated in exhibition tournaments in Mexico and South America with friend Casper Ruud – Rafa Nadal cashed in a comeback defeat at the hands of British player Cameron Norrie, world number 12.

The match, valid for the United Cup 2023 that sees Spain, Great Britain and Australia competing in Group D being played in Sydney, saw the two tennis players battle it out for 2h 45′ of play: a clash that ultimately saw Norrie prevail, who was not discouraged after losing the first set.

Certainly, beyond the bitterness of the defeat, it was a good test for the Spanish champion, who usually, when coming from a period of inactivity-and especially since the ID card reads 30 years or more-he needs a few matches before carbonizing. The Australian Open, the Spanish legend’s real goal, is still a long way off: in fact, the Slam will not start until January 16.