‘I need to increase my level’ – Rafael Nadal looking ahead despite perfect ATP Cup record

Rafael Nadal says he is happy with his perfect performance so far at the ATP Cup, but insists still needs to step up his game.

Nadal had a stellar second half of 2019, winning the US Open, The Rodgers Cup, leading Spain to Davis Cup glory, and becoming the oldest ever year-end world number one at the age of 33.

He appears to have carried that form straight into 2020 too, and has a perfect 3-0 record for Spain at the inaugural ATP Cup.

But, ahead of the quarter-finals in Sydney, Nadal is refusing to take anything for granted.

“It’s the first time I played under these heavy conditions, so the feeling on court is completely different,” Nadal told reporters on Wednesday.

“I think it’s been a positive week for me winning against three tough opponents,” he added. “It’s going to be tough in Sydney. I really hope to be ready to increase my level.”

Rafael Nadal could draw level with Roger Federer for the most Grand Slam titles if he wins the Australia Open in Melbourne later this month, but he has once again reiterated that is not on his mind at all.

“My only goal is to keep playing good tennis, keep enjoying this sport and being happy,” he said.

“And if that happens and I stay healthy then the goal is to keep producing chances in the events that I’m going to play.”

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