HomeSports NewsRafael Nadal reaches 126th ATP final of career at Melbourne summer set

Rafael Nadal has reached 126th ATP Final as the Spaniard stormed into the Melbourne summer set final

Tennis superstar Rafael Nadal is eyeing a final victory before the start of Australian Open 2022. Nadal has reached the finals of the Melbourne summer set after beating Emil Ruusuvuori in the semi-finals.

Nadal booked a trip to his 126th ATP final by progressing to the finals and the Spaniard is now eyeing the 89th ATP title of his career. To achieve the feat of 89th ATP title of his career, Nadal will have to beat Maxime Cressy.

Rafael Nadal in action at the Mexico Open last February.
Rafael Nadal in action (Getty Images)

Going into the final, Nadal is a massive favorite and is expected to make light work of his American opponent. However, it is worth noting that this is Nadal’s first tournament since August 2021 and the Spaniard is still taking easy on his body as he would not want to suffer another set back before the Australian Open 2022.

Speaking to the media after his semi-final victory, Nadal said (h/t Sportstar):

“It’s an important comeback. Starting another season here in Australia, it means a lot, of course, I need to do things better on court but it’s step-by-step. The body is holding well. I need these matches to improve. It’s about being patient and trying my best every single time.”

When is the ATP Melbourne summer set final?

The ATP Melbourne summer set final is scheduled for Sunday, 9th January, 2022. The match is expected to start at around 1:30 PM IST (8 AM GMT) and will be aired live from the Rod Laver Arena.

Nadal and Cressy have never faced each other in their careers so far which would make this an interesting matchup. Cressy can certainly trouble the Spaniard a little bit. However, Nadal will most likely walk away with his 89th ATP title.

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