'Didn't Come To Win Tournaments': Nadal Calms Expectations After His Defeat In Brisbane
Rafael Nadal has put his comeback into perspective after his quarterfinal match at the 2024 Brisbane International.
Nadal lost to Jordan Thompson in the Brisbane quarterfinal. It was a high-quality match, where the Spaniard impressed again for long periods. However, he paid the price for not converting three match points.
Despite the quality of the contest, it was still a tough loss for the 22-time Grand Slam champion. Whether it is at Grand Slam or ATP 250 level, he wants to win, and Nadal admitted he was sad not to use the match points.
However, it is important to remember that this was Nadal's first tournament back. Some were unsure what level the 14-time French Open champion would be at. He undoubtedly showed a lot of really good signs in his three singles matches in Brisbane.
Nadal pointed this out in his press conference after the defeat, stating that going all the way in tournaments like Brisbane is not his main aim right now.
"As I said, I didn't came here to win tournaments now, no? I just came here to try to come back and do it in a positive way. Then let's see."
Although Nadal is the ultimate competitor, he is keen to keep things in perspective. Coming back from injury is tough, even for someone as great as him, and that is why some difficulties along the way were always likely.
Nadal did have to take an off-court medical timeout in the contest. He said he hoped there would be no issues, but could not be definitive about it.
"I really hope if the feeling on that leg is better and better tomorrow and after tomorrow, then it's perfect news. If not, as I said, we're going to do a test and let's see.
Nadal could not commit 100% to the Australian Open after the match. The tennis world will dearly hope to see the legendary Spaniard recovered and in action in Melbourne.
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