United Cup – Cameron Norrie defeats Rafael Nadal in three sets, Great Britain lead 1-0 against Spain

You just have to see the volley he signed, after 2:38 of play, to understand that Rafael Nadal still has great things in his legs and in his racket. But his ability to show consistency in a meeting, without declining, seems to be withering. Saturday, the last day of the year 2022 and the first day of his 2023 season, his defeat against Cameron Norrie confirmed it.

Winner of the first set, Nadal lost in three sets in Sydney, during the first duel between Spain and Great Britain, on the occasion of the third day of competition in the United Cup. Norrie beat the Australian Open holder (3-6, 6-3, 6-4), in 2:44. It is the first time that he has brought him down on the main circuit, on his fifth attempt.

Clement: ‘I have absolutely no doubts about Nadal’s ethics’

Zverev, losing recovery

Nuria Parrizas-Diaz faces Katie Swan, in an attempt to put Spain on par, in Australia, in this Group D opposition. Nadal’s next outing is scheduled for Sunday, in a double that could be decisive. Accompanied by Paula Badosa, he will face the doublet Harriet Dart – Daniel Evans. On Monday, Alex de Minaur will face him for a second single this season.

Nadal’s opponent at Roland-Garros in his last official match, Alexander Zverev made his return this Saturday. The German, kept away from the courts for nearly seven months by a torn ankle ligament, lost to Jiri Lehecka (Czech Republic). He signed only one ace, against eight double faults, and lost 6-4, 6-2, in 1h32. He will have the opportunity to pick up the pace on Monday, against Taylor Fritz.

“And to think that before his serious injury, Zverev was the boss on the court against Nadal…”

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