The 2024 Australian Open will see the return of multiple stars from the ATP and WTA tour. Fans are expecting an action-packed showdown during their 15-day stay in Melbourne. The event will see Rafael Nadal making a comeback after being absent on tour for a year. His return has made his rivals more aware, as Taylor Fritz feels it is a bit tough for them.
Nadal had last played at the Australian Open this year. He will enter with the protected rankings or with a wildcard this time. Fritz feels it will be tough facing Nadal in the opening rounds of the event. He said, “Maybe he might be a little bit rusty. I think it’s going to be pretty crazy having him in draws where he’s going to be unseeded.” Nadal’s form will be carefully evaluated next season.
Taylor à propos de l’annonce de Rafael Nadal🇪🇸
🗣️ : “Je m’y attendais, c’est Rafa. Je ne pense pas qu’il allait prendre sa retraite et ne plus tenter sa chance, donc je m’attendais à ce qu’il revienne au début de l’année, après la période de repos qu’il a eu.
1/2 pic.twitter.com/2VslrSW6UI
— Team Taylor Fritz 🇺🇸 (@LaTeamFritz) December 3, 2023
The top players may face the Spaniard in the opening round in Australia. It happens as his rankings have gone down. Even though his form might not be like before, he can still put up a brave fight against the youngsters. The main draw for the Australian Open will be confirmed on the 11th of January, as players will know who they will face in the opening round.
Serena Williams’ former coach doesn’t think Rafael Nadal is a threat
Nadal will return to tour at the Brisbane International Open. The news has evoked mixed reactions from the public. While his fans are excited to see him on the court again, the question of his survival has been pointed out by Rick Macci. The former Serena Williams and Venus Williams coach has spoken about Nadal no longer being a contender for grand slams.
Macci said, “As far as Rafa coming back, as you get older, you lose a little mobility and people aren’t afraid when they know you’re vulnerable.” Even though Nadal has a perfect record on clay, his current physical condition is not a threat to his rivals. The former world No.1 had lost in the second round at the Australian Open this season. It was his earliest exit at a major in seven years.
🤔 Legendary coach Rick Macci says Rafael Nadal will likely not be a contender for Major titles in 2024:
“I wish Rafa all the best, but he’s not at the exact same level he was before so I don’t think he’s a contender to win a Slam.
I think he can be competitive and I think… pic.twitter.com/SZESkiHyQP
— Olly 🎾🇬🇧 (@Olly_Tennis_) November 30, 2023
Nadal will aim to play consistently first and then prove his critics wrong. Injuries have been the biggest concern for him since the start of his career. It has stopped Nadal from achieving so much in the sport. It will be an enduring task for him to take on next month. But the 14-time French Open champion will never go down without a fight or without leaving a mark on the court.