"Best one today when Nick is not playing": Alex de Minaur 'close to top 10' and only bettered by Nick Kyrgios as an Aussie says Rafael Nadal
ATPFriday, 05 January 2024 at 00:30
Rafael
Nadal commented on Alex De Minaur's impressive moment after his victory over
Novak Djokovic (6-4, 6-4) in the United Cup, marking his first win against a
world No. 1. This triumph led Australia to the semifinals of the team
tournament. According to Nadal, the world No. 12 Australian already has the
level to contend for significant titles.
Additionally,
Nadal compared De Minaur to Nick Kyrgios and stated that, considering Kyrgios
played only one professional match in 2023 and is still far from returning, De
Minaur is currently the best Australian tennis player.
Nadal made
a successful return to the Tour at the Brisbane International after an 11-month
absence, securing victories over Dominic Thiem and Jason Kubler without
dropping a set. Despite not being at his best yet, the 22-times Grand Slam
champion demonstrated his competitive level. Nadal remains attentive to the
happenings on the Tour and was asked about the current status of Australian
tennis players.
“How far
away do you think this group of Australian players is of being able to push for
the 2nd week of Grand Slams consistently?,” Nadal was asked.
“I think de
Minaur is a player that is very close to the top 10. I don't see him far at all
to fight for very important things, no? I think he has been improving the last
couple years. He is able to create more damage on the opponents now than before,”
he said.
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“That's
what, in my opinion, he needed. I think since last year he's able to damage
more the opponents. I don't have the whole information to really analyze the
situation the right way. But I see Alex as the best one today. Nick is not
playing. That’s how I see,” Nadal concluded.
Nadal will
play his next match in the quarterfinals against the Australian Jordan
Thompson. The former world No. 1 leads the head-to-head 2-0, with their last
encounter taking place at the 2022 French Open, where Nadal secured a
comfortable victory with a scoreline of 6-2, 6-2, 6-2.
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
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