Defending Australian Open champion Rafael Nadal admitted he is short on preparation for the upcoming Australian Open and he will need to pick up his level before the first slam of the new season.

Not much was expected from Nadal when he entered the 2022 Australian Open after contracting Covid-19. The Spaniard was short on practice but he stunned one and all by going all the way to win his 21st Grand Slam title.

Subsequently, Nadal was not at his absolute best before the Roland Garros however he once again surprised one and all by winning his 14th title in Paris.

“I arrived on the 3rd (of December). I spent almost a week doing nothing, which was the right thing to do,” Nadal told the Spanish newspaper As.

“I did a bit of physical training, I think I’ll need a few days in Australia. I’m aware that I’m a little bit short, but I’m confident that I’ll be able to pick up the level I need to be competitive in Australia.”

Meanwhile, the Spaniard has added Argentine Gustavo Marcaccio to his team after the departure of veteran Frances Roig after 18 years.

“I turn to Gustavo because Francis decided to take a different path. I’m not very much in favor of making big changes. Francis made a decision, and above all, I love him as a friend, practically family,” Nadal said.

Nadal will travel to Sydney on Monday to play in the United Cup mixed tournament to prepare for the Australian Open, which will begin on January 16. The veteran had a good run in 2022 and he would want to replicate his performances in the new season.