When Rafael Nadal took center stage at the Rod Laver Arena to begin his title defence on January 16 (Monday), the eyes of tennis fans around the world turned to the ongoing Australian Open 2023. The Spaniard took some time to find his rhythm against a spirited Jack Draper but once the former World No.1 hit his straps, Draper had no place to hide. Nadal soon got into the groove, and truth be told, it was only a matter of time before the 22-time Grand Slam champion imposed his will on the game.
Nadal secured his first win of the year as he began the defence of his Australian Open title by beating Draper 7-5 2-6 6-4 6-1.
The number one seed did not have it all his own way against the Briton, but ultimately the class and fitness of the 36-year-old made the difference as Draper – 15 years Nadal's junior – appeared to be heavily affected by cramp later in the match.
Nadal had lost six of his last seven tour-level matches coming in, but gained the advantage after he managed to break at 6-5 up in an even first set against the big-serving Draper.
Draper fought back emphatically as he raced into a 4-0 lead in the second, seeing it out comfortably to level up at 1-1, but he appeared to start cramping just two games into the third set.
Nadal took advantage and went 4-1 ahead, but the Spaniard did not always seem at his confident best himself as some uncharacteristic errors allowed his opponent back in, with Draper breaking back and managing to get to 4-4.
Nadal was able to break again to take the set 6-4, and despite Draper breaking serve in the opening game of the fourth, that was his last success of the match as the 21-year-old's legs clearly started to affect his movement and serve, with Nadal finding it simple enough to close out the win.
Data slam: Nadal matches Lendl for career wins
This was the 1,068th win of Nadal's career, bringing him level with Ivan Lendl.
The 22-time grand slam winner is now tied for third most victories in the Open Era, behind only Jimmy Connors (1,274) and Roger Federer (1,251).
WINNERS/UNFORCED ERRORS
Nadal – 41/46
Draper – 35/46
ACES/DOUBLE FAULTS
Nadal – 6/3
Draper – 13/3
BREAK POINTS WON
Nadal – 6/12
Draper – 4/11
(With Opta inputs)
