​Rafael Nadal (ranked 672 in the world) won his first singles match after almost a year’s break, the Iberian defeated Dominic Thiem, one of his opponents in the men’s tournament, 7-5, 6-1. The match was included in the first round of the ATP 250 tournament in Brisbane.

Rafael NadalPhoto: William WEST / AFP / Profimedia

Rafael Nadal, impressive results against Dominic Thiem at ATP Brisbane

After a break of almost a year, Rafael Nadal showed impressive tennis in the first match. In Brisbane, the Iberian showed a serious evolution, perfectly interpreting the tactical account thought out together with Carlos Moya.

Showing no signs of “rust” after so long an absence, Nadal had the main weapon in his arsenal. Rafa was untouchable in the opening games as he dropped just three points in the first set on serve.

He didn’t have a single break point to defend the entire game, much to Dominic’s disappointment.

His forehand (the most important weapon of his entire career) was returned at a very good level, errors in this shot were very rare.

In addition, the backhand was also quality, he looked a lot to hit from the rise, dominate the rallies and reduce the reaction time of the opponent.

He also got to the goal as the attacks allowed him to get to the goal and showed great quality.

Of course, Thiem (currently ranked 98th in the ATP rankings) is not quite the opponent to be intimidated as he was three or four seasons ago, but the Austrian still has the weapons to be uncomfortable.

However, Nadal’s victory (achieved after an hour and 30 minutes) was well-deserved and a confidence booster for both the former ATP leader, who turns 38 in June, and the Iberian’s fans.

“Returned as if he had never left,” ATP wrote immediately after the Spaniard’s victory.

It is updated.

Know

  • Nadal played his last official match at the Australian Open early last year when he lost to Mackenzie Macdonald in the second round.
  • Rafa has since missed the entire 2023 season with hip problems and underwent surgery last June.
  • Although Novak Djokovic, one of his biggest rivals in his career, has said that Rafa will return to win major titles, the Spaniard believes that he is not ready to win ATP titles at the moment.

The tournament in Brisbane will be held from December 31 to January 7. It is part of the ATP 250 category, has a total prize pool of US$739,945, and there will be 32 players in the main singles at the start, with Kei Nishikori (in 2019) as the defending champion.

Australian Open 2024 will be held from January 14 to 28 in Melbourne.