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Rafael Nadal, the only Australian Open champion in the men’s draw after nine-time victor Novak Djokovic’s deportation, opened his mission in rankling fashion in Melbourne.
The Spanish 6th seed released a portion of his brand name hammer forehands to wear out American Marcos Giron in straight sets on Rod Laver Arena.
Rafael Nadal, who beat Roger Federer for the 2009 Australian title and is pursuing a record 21st Grand Slam crown, exchanged blows with the world number 66 Giron, winning 6-1, 6-4, 6-2.
Nadal will next play Australian Thanasi Kokkinakis or Germany’s Yannick Hanfmann in the second round.
“You never know when you come back from injuries, things are difficult, you go day by day, but I’m staying positive,” said Nadal, who is working his way back from a foot injury.
“I won three matches and a title here last week. I have had very challenging months, tough moments and a lot of doubts, but I have been able to manage my foot injury.”
Nadal said he was still a little worn out subsequent to getting infected to Covid prior to coming to Australia.
“The symptoms haven’t been nice, I was in bed for four days, but I am starting to feel better and I had negative PCR tests before coming to Australia.”
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