‘Important’ win for Nadal over Mayer
Rafael Nadal says he is determined to stay in the Australian Open “as long as possible” after beating “tough opponent” Leonardo Mayer in the second round.
After brushing aside world No 79 Victor Estrella Burgos 6-1, 6-1, 6-1 in his opening match, the world No 1 was given a sterner test by Mayer on Wednesday.
However, he still came out on top with a 6-3, 6-4, 7-6 (7-4) victory in two hours and 38 minutes on Rod Laver Arena.
Nadal hit 40 winners and made only 10 unforced errors, but he did lose his serve when he was serving for the match at 5-4.
The Spaniard, though, wrapped things up in the tie-breaker.
The world No.1?? is through to the third round! #AusOpen pic.twitter.com/DjhstN6gC8
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 17, 2018
“An important victory for me. Always a tough opponent,” the 16-time Grand Slam winner said. “I had to hit some great shots in the tie-break. I wish him all the best in the season. Happy to be in the third round after a while without being in competition.
“This tournament is my favourite of the year so I want to stay as long as possible.”
Nadal will face Bosnian 28th seed Damir Dzumhur in the third round on Friday.
Latest
-
Tennis NewsNovak Djokovic reveals key to his iconic 2011 US Open return against Roger Federer
Novak Djokovic has recalled his famous forehand return against Roger Federer at the 2011 US Open and revealed the key to the shot.
-
Tennis News‘Novak Djokovic motivation will not change now he has 24 Grand Slams’
“I think this combination of the three elements is key and has been key in all his achievements since he started to play tennis.”
-
ATP TourAndy Murray makes admission about his season as he looks for a ‘strong finish’
Andy Murray has given an assessment of his year and outlined his intent to have a “strong finish.”
-
Tennis News‘Novak Djokovic is superior to Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal in key area’, claims renowned coach
“All three have the main qualities but some are better than others in some areas.”
-
Tennis NewsEmma Raducanu outlines her ‘ultimate dream’ for when she returns to tennis
Emma Raducanu has revealed what her “ultimate dream” is for when she is able to return to tennis.
-
Tennis NewsNovak Djokovic recalls his favourite matches and the ‘highest level’ he has ever played at
Novak Djokovic has recalled some of the favourite matches he has played in his career
-
ATP TourCarlos Alcaraz confirms next event as he targets Novak Djokovic’s No 1 ranking
Alcaraz pulled out of Spain’s Davis Cup team due to fatigue, but he will be back next week in China.
-
-
Tennis NewsBeing teammates with Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic was ‘wonderful’ – Roger Federer
Roger Federer has hailed the Laver Cup “camaraderie” and appreciated being teammates with his great rivals.
-
Tennis NewsDaniil Medvedev builds his perfect tennis player, ft. Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal
Daniil Medvedev has built his perfect tennis player, with Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal and himself all featuring.