Rafael Nadal trains in Adelaide

Rafael Nadal has been silent since he landed in Adelaide last week, focusing on his daily practice sessions and doing everything to keep his game on a high level.

World no. 2 is preparing for the ATP Cup and the Australian Open, seeking better results at both events than a year ago and the 21st Major crown that would put him ahead of Roger Federer.

The Spaniard will play an exhibition event with Dominic Thiem and Novak Djokovic on January 29, just before a trip to Melbourne, also training with the young Italian Jannik Sinner over the next couple of days.

Twelve months ago, Nadal played the ATP Cup final for Spain, losing to Novak Djokovic in straight sets and missing the opportunity to secure the second notable team event after the Davis Cup Finals in November 2019. In Melbourne, Rafa lost a tight quarter-final clash against Dominic Thiem, giving his best but falling 7-6, 7-6, 4-6, 7-6 after four hours and ten minutes.

Nadal skipped the US Open and stayed on the clay court since May, preparing for Roland Garros and securing the 20th Major title in Paris following a dominant performance in all seven matches. In the title clash, Nadal defeated Novak Djokovic 6-0, 6-2, 7-5, celebrating the 13th trophy in Paris and joining Roger Federer on 20 Major crowns.