Rafael Nadal is OUT of the AustralianOpen as injury blow ends reigning champ’s title defence 💔💔 REPORT
An injury-affected Rafael Nadal has been knocked out of the Australian Open, ending the top seed’s title defence., Nadal pulled up lame after stretching on a wide ball.
He immediately took a medical timeout after McDonald held for 5-3, with Nadal’s players box visibly emotional as the 21-time grand slam champion spent time off the court. Watch Tennis Live with beIN SPORTS on Kayo. Live Coverage of ATP + WTA Tour Tournaments including Every Finals Match. New to Kayo? Start your free trial now >He returned to the court and picked up his racquet to the applause of the Rod Laver Arena crowd, looking ready to try and play on.
His serve speed was noticeably down but the Spaniard held for 3-5, forcing McDonald to serve out the set.Still, the 21-time grand slam champion could barely change direction during rallies.Nadal’s injury appeared to affect the mentality of McDonald, whose serve and groundstroke speed declined significantly.Despite his best efforts, Nadal found himself facing break points serving at 5-all, managing to save just one before McKenzie broke for 6-5.
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