Even as one of the greatest of all time, defending champion Rafael Nadal admits doubts swirl around his Australian Open 2023 preparations.
Since the US Open, the top seed has compiled a 1-5 match record and feels vulnerable ahead of a first hurdle battle with Next Gen Brit Jack Draper on Monday afternoon.
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“Yeah, without a doubt. I have been losing more than usual, so that's part of the business. I think I am humble enough to accept that situation,” said the world No.2, referencing two tight three-set United Cup defeats at the hands of Alex de Minaur and Cameron Norrie.
“I need to build again all this momentum. I need to build again this confidence with myself with victories.
“By the way, I didn't play that bad the first two matches of the year. I lost against two great opponents.
“I already have been here for three weeks, practising every day with that conditions, with the best players. That helps a lot in general terms.”
The 22-time Grand Slam champion, featuring in his 18th main draw at Melbourne Park, is fully aware of the dangers posed by Australian Open debutant Draper.
“I saw a few times. Yeah, I know him more or less,” smiled the Spaniard, knowing the 21-year-old is one of the rising stars in the sport.
“Probably one of the toughest first rounds possible, being seeded. Young, powerful, growing very, very fast on the ranking, playing well.”
Another variable for Nadal since his miraculous 2022 title triumph last summer is that he has become a parent, but no father fatigue here, the 36-year-old is locked into business mode.
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“That changed my preparation last year a lot, without a doubt. A lot of changes at the beginning,” revealed Nadal.
“But now, no. I am able to do my normal routines. I practise probably more than ever, more than the last 10 years the last three weeks.
“Have been a positive experience in all ways. I'm very satisfied about these three weeks of work and, of course, having the family with me.”
If you missed the top seed’s mesmerising comeback from the brink in last January’s final, where were you?
“What happen last year is going to stay in my heart and my memory forever.
"One of the most emotional victories of my tennis career, without a doubt. A lot of emotions coming back from a long injury,” recalled the two-time Australian Open champion.
“The love of the people, the atmosphere we lived here on Rod Laver Arena in that final, have been unforgettable for me.”
Back to the present and with managing his body, in-form rivals and personal doubts, it could be an overwhelming load. However, Nadal is the expert at approaching the Grand Slam challenge and offering up a positive attitude.
His renowned work ethic and warrior spirit have also come to the surface.
“That's part of our journey. You need to live with your personal momentum. My personal momentum is not bad, I tell you. I am good and happy,” insisted the world No.2.
“I can go here on Monday and lose without a doubt and [it's] not going to be the end of the world. Going to be a tough moment, of course, but I going to accept it, doesn't matter the result.
“I'm going to keep working because I have been better and better every single week. I feel faster in the legs. I feel playing better with more confidence.
“I feel ready honestly, in terms of trying to play very good tennis on Monday. Then I need to make that happen and I'm going to fight for it.”