Rafael Nadal defeats Dominic Thiem in straight sets to cap off a stunning comeback victory. After a year-long injury layoff, Rafael Nadal easily defeated 2020 US Open champion Dominic Thiem 7-5, 6-1 in the opening round of the Brisbane International on Tuesday, allaying any worries about rustiness.
Playing in his first singles encounter since sustaining a hip flexor injury in the Australian Open second round the previous year, Nadal looked extremely sharp right away, usually seizing the lead with his powerful forehand and commanding play from the baseline.
He won two thirds of the points overall and 90% of the points on his first serve because to his exceptionally accurate serve. He made many returns back into play and moved with great agility.
Following the match, Reuters quoted the Spaniard as stating, “After probably one of the toughest years of my tennis career, today is honestly an emotional and important day for me.”
“My team and family, who have supported me every day for the past year, are proud of me for having the opportunity to return after a year and perform in front of an incredible crowd on the first day.”
Later in his news conference, Nadal declared that he was pleased to allay any remaining doubts about his competitive level by winning with a boost to his self-esteem.
“You must regain your self-assurance and mobility. It requires time. Following the procedure, you may experience anxiety when moving in a certain way. You must learn to move quickly, read the ball, and do actions instinctively.
One more attempt at a comeback
After spending a few seasons in and around the top 100, Thiem, a former World No. 3 himself, is hoping to get back to his competitive best. Thiem proved to be a brave sparring partner for Nadal, displaying glimmers of his previous self in a superb opening set.
The Austrian’s strength was evident throughout most baseline exchanges, even if Nadal made too many mistakes. As a result, Nadal had to step up his play towards the conclusion of the set to find the breakthrough and convert a fourth break point in the 12th game to win the opening set.
The level of play and skill on exhibit during that time period was similar to some of the best tennis played during the two players’ successive French Open finals in 2018 and 2019, which Nadal won.
He gained the initiative early in the second set, breaking Thiem in his first service game and further solidifying his position from there. From that point on, there was no turning back for him.
Although Nadal has recovered from injuries before—most notably, winning the 2022 Australian Open after overcoming a two-set deficit in the championship match—this is the first time in his career that he has been compelled to perform at his peak following such an extended absence from competition.
Given the uncertainties surrounding his comeback level, a strong showing and victory would be encouraging for his dreams of writing another fairytale in Melbourne, where the Australian Open begins on January 14.
In Brisbane, Nadal will next play hometown favorite Jason Kubler.
