The Spaniard is now being touted as the tournament’s potential winner to surpass Novak Djokovic in all-time Grand Slam triumphs
Rafael Nadal’s chances of winning this year’s Australian Open, and surpassing Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer in all-time Grand Slam triumphs, are being talked up after his latest impressive win.
In a battle that went past midnight in Melbourne, the 35-year-old beat Russian hopeful Karen Khachanov 3-6, 2-6, 6-3, 1-6 in what he called his “best match” since making a comeback from a left foot injury.
“It is a very special week for me, coming back,” Nadal said on-court in his post-game interview. “Every single time I am able to play here is very special.”
The dream is still alive ✨
🇪🇸 @RafaelNadal defeats Karen Khachanov 6-3 6-2 3-6 6-1 to advance to the fourth round at the #AusOpen for the 15th time.#AO2022 pic.twitter.com/MRVpuFm5JM
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 21, 2022
“Tonight I played against a great player and a good friend on [the] tour. It was my best match since I have come back without a doubt,” he claimed.