Nadal relieved back issues weren't a problem in opener

Rafael Nadal revealed on the eve of the tournament that he was dealing with back issues for the past fortnight yet his play did not suffer against Djere.

It was a straightforward display from Nadal who overcame Djere 6-3 6-4 6-1 in his first-round match at the Australian Open. It was doubtful for many as to how he would look considering the revelation of back issues that has kept him sidelined at the ATP Cup. After the match he displayed relief:

"I needed to survive today and that's what I did. Just tried to be focused all the time, tried to get through."

Read also

2021 Australian Open Prize Money with A$71.5 million up for grabs

For Nadal, it was key to keep the match as brief as possible in order to give himself more time to get treatment on the back. He won in straight sets which made him really happy as he pointed out:

"For me personally, (I'm) happy to be through to the second round. I did I think a good job today. Straight sets, that's what I did.”

It wasn't as sharp as we are usually accustomed to when Nadal play but it got the job done. He himself said that he going to go day by day and see what happens:

"Here I am to try my best as always. That's it. Let's go day by day. Today I was able to find a way to be through. That gives me the chance to have one more day tomorrow.

Read also

Rafael Nadal tops Laslo Djere to kick off Australian Open title chase

Just like all players, Nadal was asked about quarantine and preparation to which he said:

"Of course, was not ideal preparation for me, but I am still alive, no? That's the main thing. Just happy to be playing in Australia one more time and just want to be here as long as possible."

#AusOpen

@AustralianOpen

·Follow

When you can't decide what to select off the postgame menu 🍝🤔 @RafaelNadal | #AusOpen | #AO2021

1.3K

Reply

Copy link

Read 17 replies