Nadal stumbles before overcoming Draper
Defending champion Rafa Nadal dropped a set but prevailed in a battle of fitness against rising talent Jack Draper to reach the second round of the Australian Open with an unconvincing 7-5 2-6 6-4 6-1 win.
Jack Draper Sport News
Nadal begins Open defense, Swiatek targets maiden Melbourne title
MELBOURNE: Rafael Nadal returns to the scene of one of his greatest Grand Slam triumphs when the Australian Open begins Monday, with women’s number one Iga Swiatek headlining the night session on the showpiece Rod Laver Arena. A year ago, the 36-year-old Spaniard defied a long injury layoff and a two-set deficit in the final against Daniil Medvedev to win his second Melbourne Park title and a record 21st Grand Slam. The top seed, who extended that record to 22 titles at Roland Garros, faces a testing first-round clash against emerging 21-year-old Briton Jack Draper, who reached the Adelaide semifinals last week.
Novak Djokovic, Iga Swiatek open Australian Open as big favorites
Novak Djokovic and Iga Swiatek are massive favorites to win their respective draws ahead of the start of the Australian Open on Sunday night (Jan 15).
Nadal facing tough test in Australian Open defence
Rafael Nadal opens his Australian Open title defence Monday feeling vulnerable and against a dangerous young opponent, with women's top seed Iga Swiatek also facing a tricky encounter as she targets a maiden crown.
'Vulnerable' Nadal says Djokovic clear favourite at Australian Open
Melbourne, Jan 14, 2023 (AFP) -Defending champion Rafael Nadal admitted Saturday he felt vulnerable heading into the Australian Open after two straight defeats in the build-up and said that Novak Djokovic was clear favourite.
Norrie downs Brooksby to set up Gasquet final in Auckland
New Zealand-raised Briton Cameron Norrie stormed into the final of the Auckland Open with a 6-3 6-4 win over Jenson Brooksby on Friday, continuing his unbeaten start to the season ahead of the Australian Open.
Djokovic to play 75th-ranked Spaniard on Australian Open return
Novak Djokovic was on Thursday drawn to play Spain's Roberto Carballes Baena on his return to the Australian Open and could meet Nick Kyrgios in the last eight.
ATP roundup: Frenchman survives John Isner's 28 aces
French qualifier Gregoire Barrere withstood 28 aces in a 6-7 (3), 7-6 (5), 6-3 first-round upset of No. 6 seed John Isner at the ASB Classic on Tuesday in Auckland, New Zealand.