WASHINGTON: Rafael Nadal made a triumphant return to singles action after beating Leo Borg 6-3, 6-4 at the Swedish Open to confirm his intention to compete in the final Grand Slam of the year, the US Open.
He also teamed up with Casper Ruud in doubles and scored a win. The back-to-back wins are a big confidence boost for Nadal, who has struggled with injuries since last year.
“Great feelings. It’s true that there were some conditions in terms of the weather, but we are lucky that we could play the whole match without rain today.
Before this year, Nadal last played in Bastad in 2005, when he also won the singles title. The 22-time Grand Slam champion joked about this year’s title defense.
“I’m defending the title,” Nadal joked. “Playing in front of a full audience means a lot to me. Even in the most difficult moments, I was able to continue with the help of the team.
“The fans have a huge influence on that. They give me amazing energy. Today I have to thank the Spanish fans here, but especially the Swedes, because I haven’t been able to play here for a long time.”
After winning in straight sets at the Swedish Open, Nadal appeared on the US Open entry list with a protected No. 9 ranking.
Nadal last appeared at the US Open in 2022, losing to Frances Tiafoe in the fourth round of the tournament.
Along with compatriot Pablo Carren Busta, Denis Shapovalov, Reilly Opelka, Soonwoo Kwon and Dominic Stricker, Nadal is one of six men’s singles players currently in the US Open main draw via a protected ranking.
