RAFAEL Nadal, the only Australian Open champion in the men’s draw after nine-time winner Novak Djokovic’s deportation, opened his campaign in blistering fashion in Melbourne today.

The Spanish sixth seed unleashed some of his trademark hammer forehands to wear down American Marcos Giron in straight sets on Rod Laver Arena.

Nadal, who beat Roger Federer for the 2009 Australian title and is chasing a record 21st Grand Slam crown, traded blows with the world number 66 Giron, winning 6-1, 6-4, 6-2.

Nadal will next play Australian Thanasi Kokkinakis or Germany’s Yannick Hanfmann in the second round.

“You never know when you come back from injuries, things are difficult, you go day by day, but I’m staying positive,” said Nadal, who is working his way back from a foot injury. 

“I won three matches and a title here last week. I have had very challenging months, tough moments and a lot of doubts, but I have been able to manage my foot injury.”

Nadal said he was still a little tired after contracting Covid before coming to Australia, but added: “The symptoms haven’t been nice, I was in bed for four days, but I am starting to feel better and I had negative PCR tests before coming to Australia.” – AFP, January 17, 2022.