Xtra Time Web Desk: Nadal is on his way to become the only fourth man after Djokovic, Roy Emerson and Rod Laver to win all 4 Grand Slam title at least twice. Nadal last won the Australian Open in 2009.
“I was lucky to win once in 2009 but I never thought about another chance in 2022. Just enjoy the victory today and after that try my best,” Nadal said after winning his semi-final on Friday.
This year’s Australian Open will be Nadal’s 9th major final since turning 30 as the Spaniard continues to prove that age is only a number.
On Friday, Nadal beats 7th seed Berrettini and made it to the finals, as he needed less than 90 minutes to take the first two sets. However, the Italian, who was under the pump, responded to pressure well by hitting winners at will in the third set and force a fourth one.
With the roof closed on Rod Laver Arena because of heavy local rain, and the subsequent high humidity in the building, the ball was heavy and flat, helping Nadal keep the ball in play. Nearly all of the long rallies in the first two sets went the sixth-seeded Spanish left-hander’s way.
Nadal took control again when he broke Berrettini’s serve in the eighth game of the fourth set. He then held to clinch the match, then pumped his arm three times in celebration.