Rafael Nadal aims for great start at United Cup in Australia

• Rafael Nadal is raring to go at the start of the season.
• World No. 2 will lead Team Spain’s title quest at United Cup.
• Mixed-teams event will be from December 29-January 8.

Rafael Nadal, the world’s No. 2 entering the United Cup, which gets underway here on Thursday, is eager to lead Team Spain’s title defence.

The 36-year-old will compete for his country in the brand-new 18-country mixed-teams competition, which will take place in Brisbane, Perth, and Sydney from December 29 to January 8.

“The start of the season is always exciting. All the uncertainties about how things will turn out are fresh to everyone. Despite the fact that I am unsure of how many seasons I have left on the Tour, starts are always unique, “In the Wednesday pre-tournament news conference, Nadal spoke for Spain.

“I’m extremely motivated to have a strong beginning. For me, getting off to a strong start is essential for building confidence. It hasn’t been easy for me these past few months. Before the tournament begins, I simply attempt to practise properly here. Of course, strive to aid the group after that. The most important thing for me right now is to get back to competing and feeling well on the court. I intend to. I am prepared to accomplish that, but let’s see “Added he.

With four tour-level victories in 2022, Nadal had another another legendary season. The 36-year-old, who finished the year with a 39-8 record, previously enjoyed success in Australia, taking home an ATP 250 title in Melbourne before capturing his second Australian Open title.

The World No. 2 will want to maintain that form this year, but he is aware that Group D opponents Cameron Norrie of the United Kingdom and Alex de Minaur of Australia will make it difficult.

“The only thing I’m concentrating on right now is raising my level of competition. The primary emphasis right now is the upcoming match versus Cam Norrie. Then, in my opinion, the first tie should be attempted to be won as a team rather than any individual match. Next, let’s see what can be done to Australia “said Nadal.

On Saturday, Nadal will face Norrie to open his campaign after hitting inside the Ken Rosewall Arena on Wednesday. Along with Paula Badosa, Pablo Carreno Busta, Nuria Parrizas Diaz, Albert Ramos-Vinolas, David Vega Hernandez, and Jessica Bouzas Maneiro, he will participate for Spain.

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