World No. 2 Rafael Nadal takes on British No. 1 Cameron Norrie in a mouth-watering clash in the group stage of the 2023 United Cup on Saturday.
The 36-year-old had a fantastic start to 2022 as he won the first three tournaments he participated in, including the Australian Open. Nadal will be looking forward to getting some much-needed game time ahead of the 2023 Australian Open.
The Spanish veteran didn’t have the best of times toward the latter stages of 2022. After a shock exit in the round of 16 at the US Open, Nadal couldn’t make a mark in the Paris Masters and the ATP Finals. After his season on the tour came to an end at the ATP Finals, Nadal went to play in an exhibition tournament in South America alongside Casper Ruud. Nadal defeated the Norwegian youngster on four occasions and lost only once.
The southpaw had a brilliant start to the United Cup as he outclassed the talented Alex de Minaur in straight sets 6-3, 6-3 in a one-sided encounter. While Rafael Nadal is a different kettle of fish, the comprehensive win will certainly give Norrie a great deal of confidence.
Norrie reached the semis of a Grand Slam for the first time in his career at the 2022 Wimbledon Championships. He also made his top 10 debut this year and climbed to a career-high ranking of world No. 8 on 12 September 2022. Norrie is currently ranked world No. 14 and will look to get back in the top 10 soon.
Rafael Nadal has an unblemished head-to-head record against Cameron Norrie so far. The legendary player leads 4-0 and will hope to keep the stranglehold over Norrie intact.
Prediction: Rafael Nadal to win in three sets.
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