Wednesday cover: Not the end for Rafael Nadal after shock Australian Open exit

Rafael Nadal adorns The National Sport front page on Wednesday, January 20 after his shock first round defeat at the Australian Open.

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Rafael Nadal adorns The National Sport front page on Wednesday, January 20 after his shock first round defeat at the Australian Open.

World No 5 Nadal was defeated by fellow Spaniard Fernando Verdasco 7-6, 4-6, 3-6, 7-6, 6-2 after four hours and 45 minutes on court.

The defeat represents the latest setback in Nadal’s attempts to put his 2015 troubles behind him and return to the pinnacle of men’s tennis.

However, Jon Turner argues that while an early exit his less than ideal, Nadal needs more time and patience as he continues his revival.

Meanwhile, you can stay up-to-date with all the latest results and reports from Day 3 in Melbourne here.

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