Rafael Nadal has downplayed any expectations heading into the 2023 season.
The 22-time Grand Slam champion is unsure of his performance in the upcoming tennis season but assured fans he would prepare in the best way possible.
Nadal, recently named the 2022 Esquire Man of the Year for the talent, commitment, and values he displayed over the past 12 months, revealed his doubts surrounding the new season.
“I don’t know how I’m going to be,” the world No. 2 said.
“Each season is a new season and every time I start a new season there’s uncertainty, there are doubts.”
The Spaniard was also voted the fan’s favourite for the first time at the ATP Awards on Tuesday, after a historic 2022 season.
He won the first two majors of the year, winning his 21st Grand Slam at the Australian Open, before claiming the French Open at Roland Garros in June.
Nadal made his best start to an ATP Tour season, winning his first 20 matches despite beginning the year after a lengthy injury layoff, including victories at Acapulco and Melbourne.
The former World No. 1 will kick off his 2023 campaign at the United Cup this December, a mixed-team tournament set to replace the ATP Cup and played across three cities in Australia: Brisbane, Perth, and Melbourne.
