More misery was heaped on current World No. 6 tennis player Rafael Nadal as he succumbed to a frustrating defeat in the opening match of Qatar Open.
The 28 year-old only returned to action last week, and was unable to impress against Michael Better, despite showcasing glimpses of brilliance throughout the match.
Nadal claimed the first set 6-1, but was eventually outplayed in the following two sets; with Berrer powering through 6-3, 6-4 to clinch his progression into the next round.
“These things happen after a long time without being on the road, being on rhythm, being in competition,” Nadal told BBC.
“I was playing with more nerves because after a long time away I wanted to win.
That being said, Nadal did go on to reiterate that his hunger and desire to do well remains omnipresent and that he will be working hard ahead of the inaugural Grand Slam of the year in Melbourne later this month.
Other posts by Ruth Ho
