Jason Kubler vs Rafael Nadal Prediction & Betting Tips - Brisbane International

Prediction published on 03/01/2024, 01:50  by Daniel Ngulu in Tennis Predictions

Rafael Nadal continues with his Brisbane International campaign and will play fellow wildcard Jason Kubler next. The two will battle in the second round with the winner taking on either Ugo Humbert or Jordan Thompson in the quarterfinals. Jason Kubler advanced to this round by defeating Aslan Karatsev in the first round. The match ended prematurely as Karatsev was forced to retire in the third set. It was Kubler’s first Singles match since August and the victory ended a run of three straight defeats. Kubler is a Brisbane native, he will hope the backing of the home crowd sees him through this round. Currently ranked 102 in the ATP, Kubler had a decent campaign last season and compiled a 25-19 record. He alternated between the tour and challenger circuit and won 10 of 19 matches on hard courts.

Rafael Nadal made a superb return to the tour after a long injury layoff and defeated Dominic Thiem 2-0 in the first round. The 22-time Grand Slam champion had not played a competitive tennis match in a year and didn't look to have lost a step. He should therefore have the momentum to get past this round which will boost his confidence to go all the way. Nadal played just four matches last season and managed only one win before going down with a hip injury. His absence from the court saw him drop out of the top 100 for the first time in 20 years. The Spaniard, who has compiled a 443-112 record on hard courts, is ranked 672nd in the world. He has hinted that this season might be his last as a professional tennis player.