Australian Open Director Optimistic on Rafael Nadal’s Participation Amid Chaos

Tournament director, Craig Tiley is confident about Rafael Nadal and his participation at the Australian Open 2022. Just two days ago, the 20-time Grand Slam winner tested positive for the virus. The Spaniard has isolated himself and is taking necessary precautions.

Tiley believes that since the Australian Open is still a month away, he is confident that Nadal will be able to participate. On the other hand, Novak Djokovic is still to reveal his status, so his availability still remains a mystery.

Craig Tiley is optimistic about Rafael Nadal’s case

In light of Nadal’s diagnosis, the director remains optimistic despite the controversial comments that he had made. He remains sure of the fact that Nadal will recover in time to participate in the Australian Open 2022.

Tiley said, ” I have confidence in the coming of Rafa Nadal. Players who test positive now will stop being contagious after a while, and there will be no more problems then. Never being positive is a good thing, but if you want to play the Australian Open, now is the time to catch the virus.”

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Rafael Nadal last participated at the Majors in the French Open 2021. Since then, the Spaniard hasn’t played much tennis on the ATP circuit. Recently, the Spaniard made his comeback at an exhibition event in Abu Dhabi.

Rafael Nadal and his return to tennis

The Spanish star finally returned on the tennis court for an exhibition tournament in Abu Dhabi in mid-December. However, his comeback wasn’t great enough as he fell short against the three-time Grand Slam winner, Andy Murray.

Soon after he caught the virus. Moreover, yesterday Rafael Nadal’s coach, Carlos Moya also tested positive for the coronavirus. The duo is currently in Mallorca and is taking all the medications.

Despite Craig Tiley’s assurances, it is still unclear whether Rafael Nadal will compete in the Australian Open in 2022 at Melbourne Park.