Jack Draper lost his first-round match at the Australian Open to defending champion Rafael Nadal
Cameron Norrie into second round with win over Van Aasche
There is no experience in professional tennis like staring down Nadal for the first time, from the aura that he commands even before he enters the court to the uniqueness of his heavy lefty-topspin. Draper dealt with the mental challenge well, serving at an exceptional level for much of the opening set. But in the first moment of true pressure, serving down 5-6 in the set, Nadal separated himself, unloading on his forehand.
Things only became more difficult for Draper as the match endured and at 2-2, 40-40, a brutal 22-stroke rally took all his remaining energy. Draper did not even attempt to chase down Nadal’s forehand winner and, from that point until the end, he could only roll 75 miles per hour serves into the court.
“I think I can take away the fact that my tennis is getting closer and closer,” said Draper. “And physically I’ll be first to say I’m still a work in progress.”
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