Rafael Nadal opens up on ATP Cup rustiness after giving Spain victory over Georgia
Rafael Nadal was given a tough test by Nikoloz Basilashvili at the ATP Cup.
Rafael Nadal says he hopes his performance over Nikoloz Basilashvili will help shake off any rustiness after getting his season started with a win. Nadal made his first appearance of 2020 in Perth on Saturday for Spain in the ATP Cup.
And he was forced to overcome a stern examination from big-hitting Georgian Basilashvili.
But Nadal ultimately came through 6-3 7-5 in one hour and 50 minutes, which gave Spain an unassailable lead over Georgia.
Nadal’s 2019 season ended on November 24 by winning the Davis Cup but he was back in action just a few days before Christmas in Abu Dhabi where he won an exhibition.
And he’s now got his 2020 season underway in Perth with Spain at the ATP Cup.
JUST IN: Transfer News LIVE - All the latest gossip and rumours
It means the 33-year-old has not had much time to rest and recuperate from last year’s exertions.
But Nadal says he is satisfied with how he performed given his situation.
“For me, it hasn’t been much of an off season,” Nadal said.
“[I almost] followed [last] season because that’s my reality.
“I am fine. Of course, matches like today helps to [get] more rhythm and victories help too. So that is an important step.
“The good thing is to play well and win matches.
“That helps you with the confidence and to win a match against a good player like him helps the confidence, the rhythm and I did things well.
“There are things I can improve but in general terms I have to be satisfied.”
DON’T MISS
Why is Roger Federer not playing at the ATP Cup?
How to watch the ATP Cup online and on TV
Stefanos Tsitsipas backed to be the next Roger Federer - EXCLUSIVE
Despite the defeat, Basilashvili was content with how he played after being hit by cramps at the start of the second set.
“I think I was okay physically at the end of the first set, and then I got cramps a bit at the start of the second set," said Basilashvili.
"In general, I think it was a good match. I really enjoyed it and the court is really nice atmosphere here. Today, I can say many positive things, but obviously playing with Rafa is physically very demanding.
“I had to put in 100 per cent, and some moments in the beginning of second set I start cramping, but then somehow I recovered a little bit."