Rafael Nadal And Ash Barty Cruise Through At The Australian Open
Australian Open
January 17, 2022
Rafael Nadal and Ashleigh Barty won comfortably in straight sets on the opening day of the Australian Open.
But Britain’s Cameron Norrie fell to hot American Sebastian Korda before he could find a rhythm.
Barty had match points to inflict a double bagel on Ukrainian qualifier Lesia Tsurenko on Rod Laver Arena.
But 6-0, 6-1 in just 54 minutes will leave her plenty more in the tank.
Barty’s post-match interview focused more on her Wimbledon triumph than anything else.
She told the Aussie crowd how much she enjoyed the All England Club last year.
Imagine the reception back home if she retains her title at Wimbledon 2022!
Barty’s biggest opponent has always been herself. So it was ominous for her rivals to hear her looking and sounding so cool on court at her home Slam.
‘I think I’m my most comfortable self when I’m out on the court,’ she explained after using her slice to perfection during her opening contest.
Wimbledon glory certainly seems to have given Ash even more comfort and confidence.
Rafael Nadal will also set his sights on Wimbledon 2022 in a few months.
He will be desperate to do well in London, particularly if he fails to win the Aussie Open or his beloved French Open.
Rafa is tied with Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer on twenty Grand Slam titles.
That means Wimbledon 2022 will be even more significant for all three superstars.
And it is already the most important event in the tennis calendar!
But tennis fans love the Aussie Open too, of course.
And for Nadal, his first Grand Slam match of 2022 was distinctly encouraging.
He maintained his momentum after winning Melbourne’s warm-up tournament.
And the Spaniard’s injury problems seem to be well and truly behind him.
Nadal looked lean and combative as he put Marcos Giron to the sword.
The only slight stutter came in the second set when break points went begging.
But the greatest champions improve round by round during Grand Slam fortnights.
And Nadal will be more than happy with his 6-1, 6-4, 6-2 victory.
He said later: ‘I have had very challenging months, tough moments and a lot of doubts.
‘You never know when you come back from injuries – things are difficult and you go day by day.
‘But I’m staying positive. I won three matches and a title here last week.’
Could Nadal win the Australian Open to edge ahead of rivals Federer and Djokovic?
He will aim to go deep and then use all his warrior qualities and big-time experience to lift the trophy itself.
Meanwhile Cameron Norrie didn’t start 2022 as well as he began 2021. American Korda served superbly and displayed dominance throughout.
Norrie couldn’t find any accuracy or zip when it mattered. ‘It’s so disappointing to start the year like this,’ he said later.
But Norrie will have plenty of time to find his form before Wimbledon 2022.
That’s the Slam that matters most.
And Wimbledon 2022 is Centenary Year!
History, health and happiness will be the buzz-words at the most prestigious event of the British summer.
Will you be there to savour the unique atmosphere?
Click here to secure your tickets to the next Wimbledon Championships.