Spaniard Rafael Nadal has confirmed he will look to make a successful defense of his title at the Australian Open, the first of four major tennis tournaments, next January, despite his form slipping slightly after injuries dogged him in 2022.
The 36-year-old began his training in recent days following an exhibition tour of Latin America with third seeded Norwegian Casper Ruud.
“I arrived on December 3, I spent almost a week doing nothing and it was the right thing to do,” Nadal said. “I’ve done some physical training and I think I’ll need to train for a few days in Australia. I I realize my level has dropped a bit, but I’m confident I’ll be able to raise the bar to compete at the Australian Open.”
Nadal, who won a record 22 Grand Slam titles, has announced that Argentinean Gustavo Marcaccio will join his coaching team, starting next season.
The decision came after Spanish manager Francis Roig announced his departure from Nadal’s team after 18 years.
“I will use Gustavo because Francis has decided to take a different path,” said Nadal. I’d rather make big changes. Francis has made up his mind but I love him as a friend. I truly consider him family.
Nadal will travel to Sydney next Monday for a warm-up tournament for the Australian Open.
