Rafael Nadal is Positive Going Into Australia

Written by: Staff on 15th January 2012

Tennis Australian Open 2012 - Nadal practice

Rafael Nadal is Positive Going Into Australia

Spanish tennis player Rafael Nadal practices at the Rod Laver Arena ahead of the Australian Open Tennis Tournament in Melbourne, Australia, 10 January 2011. The tournament runs from January 16 until 29. EPA/JULIAN SMITH AUSTRALIA AND NEW ZEALAND OUT |

Rafa Nadal is staying positive heading into the Australian Open, with the No. 2 proclaiming his dodgy shoulder has healed into acceptable shape to begin the first major of the season.

The Spaniard tempered his enthusiasm, only mildly optimistic on his chances. “My shoulder is good,” said the 10-time Grand Slam champion said. “Hopefully (I am ready). I will try my best.”

Nadal has kept a relatively low profile heading into the event he won in 2009, sticking to the practice court and making the occasional public appearance for sponsors., One of those was to promote a safe driving campaign, encouraging fans not to drink and drive.

A by-product was a “Rafa cocktail” featuring plenty of fresh berries and other good stuff and noticeably missing any alcohol. Nadal will open his Australian Open campaign against a qualifier.