MELBOURNE • The absence of “The King of Melbourne Park” hung heavy over the Australian Open for fans of Novak Djokovic as the first Grand Slam of the year yesterday got under way without the ninetime champion and world No. 1.
Rafael Nadal, one of the biggest beneficiaries from the Serb’s absence, launched his bid for a record 21st Grand Slam men’s title in blistering fashion – seemingly putting his recent injury problems behind him.
The Spanish sixth seed, who is vying to break out of a tie for the most Majors alongside Djokovic and the injured Roger Federer, bludgeoned American Marcos Giron 6-1, 6-4, 6-2 in the first round.
“Twelve events in two years are not many,” Nadal, who will next take on German Yannick Hanfmann tomorrow, said.
“If we add that I was not able to practise very often, too, it’s a really tough one. But here I am. I am super happy about all the work that we have done to be back... We’re going to keep trying hard.
هذه القصة مأخوذة من طبعة January 18, 2022 من The Straits Times.
ابدأ النسخة التجريبية المجانية من Magzter GOLD لمدة 7 أيام للوصول إلى آلاف القصص المتميزة المنسقة وأكثر من 8500 مجلة وصحيفة.
بالفعل مشترك ? تسجيل الدخول
هذه القصة مأخوذة من طبعة January 18, 2022 من The Straits Times.
ابدأ النسخة التجريبية المجانية من Magzter GOLD لمدة 7 أيام للوصول إلى آلاف القصص المتميزة المنسقة وأكثر من 8500 مجلة وصحيفة.
بالفعل مشترك? تسجيل الدخول
PACIFIC VAMPIRE AGAIN RUTHLESS
Two-out-of-two from Jason Ong’s newest revelation may open the door to 4YO riches
BURRIDGE WILL NOT HASTEN NEXT MOVE
Softer option works for honest 3YO, but veteran trainer may revisit Guineas plans
Over 200,000 workers gained Skills via company training panels
NTUC says such committees also help firms transform by harnessing digital tools
AIA S’pore invests over 20m In new wealth team and centre
Insurer is targeting the growing affluent population in the region
Singtel shares drop after it warns of $3.lb impairment provisions
Telecoms giant expects second-half net loss but says dividend payments won’ be hit
Yen rises against US dollar, Singdollar on suspected govt intervention
Japanese banks said to be selling greenback for yen as currency plunged to 34-year low
Kindergarten in the 'heart' of Joo Chiat has stories to tell
Site was where notable political steps were taken by Goh Chok Tong and Teo Chee Hean
Over 800 speeding violations caught via red-light cameras in three weeks
Traffic Police’s activation of key function has expanded enforcement tools against violators
Many Ukrainian ex-POWs suffer lingering traumas
They have injuries from torture and sexual violence, but do not get adequate treatment
ICC preparing arrest warrants over Gaza war: Israeli officials
Warrants could name officials from both Hamas and Israel, including Netanyahu