Rafael Nadal believes that Nick Kyrgios is a legitimate contender for the Australian Open title, as the Spaniard suggested that the Australian could probably win any Grand Slam outside of the French Open. Kyrgios, who decided to skip the French Open in 2022, finished as runner-up at Wimbledon and also reached the quarterfinals of the US Open.
During his pre-tournament press conference at the United Cup, Nadal was asked about Kyrgios’ chances at the Australian Open. “I know he doesn’t really like playing Roland Garros. That’s the only tournament where it seems like he doesn’t really like to play.
The rest of the tournaments, he played the final at Wimbledon, and in New York he was close to the final, I think, with very positive chances. You can win in any tournament you are playing. He has all the talent, the weapons to beat any player.
Of course he can,» Nadal said of Kyrgios.
Nadal on his future
Nadal, who turns 36 in June, had another injury-plagued season in 2022. Still, he appears poised to play at least one more full season on Tour.
When asked about his future in tennis, Nadal suggested that he is taking it day by day. «As a professional, you never know. I mean, I hope not. I mean, when you’re 36, you never know when it’s going to be the last.
It’s obvious, but I don’t like to talk about it because I’m not in that mood right now. Just focus on trying to play at the highest level possible and give myself the chance to remain competitive, to fight for anything,» Nadal explained.
Meanwhile, Nadal is set to kick off his 2023 season at the inaugural United Cup. Following the United Cup, Nadal will head to Melbourne Park, where he will attempt to defend his Australian Open title.
