Rafael Nadal made a rollicking start to the season. However, different injuries have halted his progress as he strives to finish the year on a strong note.
The former world No. 1 picked up his last win on the tour in the third round of the 2022 US Open when he defeated French veteran Richard Gasquet in straight sets. Since then, Nadal has lost three matches on the trot against three different American players. In the round of 16 of the US Open, Nadal went down to Frances Tiafoe. He returned at the Paris Masters but lost in the round of 32 against Tommy Paul.
The legendary Spaniard lost his most recent match against Taylor Fritz in the ATP Finals. This was his opening clash in the competition. After putting up a strong fight in the first set, albeit, in a losing cause, Nadal was completely outplayed in the second set. The southpaw lost the match 6-7 (3-7), 1-6. For the first time since 2009, Nadal has lost three matches on the trot.
After the loss, Nadal said that he is practicing well, and he is looking forward to playing more matches against top-level players. The ATP Finals provide him a great platform to do the same as he is guaranteed to play at least three matches against quality opponents.
“I am practicing much better than how I am competing. I will keep trying. I just need to play more matches against top-level guys.”
The top-seeded player in Turin will lock horns with an in-form Felix Auger-Aliassime in a crucial encounter for both players.
What’s next for Rafael Nadal in the ATP Finals?
The top-seeded player in Turin will lock horns with an in-form Felix Auger-Aliassime on Tuesday in a crucial encounter for both players.
Nadal and Felix Auger-Aliassime have faced each other on a couple of occasions in the past. The experienced campaigner has a 2-0 lead over the young Canadian.
Auger-Aliassime is in the form of his life while Nadal has hit a lean patch. This could be the former’s best chance to get on the board against Nadal.
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