Intro:

Rafael Nadal, 28, admitted he was 'tired' ahead of his Halle Open second round clash with home favourite Dustin Brown of Germany on Thursday. The Spaniard became the first man ever to win a major title nine times by lifting the French Open trophy for a record fifth successive year last week.

Script:

SOUNDBITE: (English) Rafael Nadal (on competing at Halle)

"After winning there in Roland Garros, it isn't a strong position to come here to Halle but I really want to try. I know my preparation will not be the perfect one. I know that I am probably a little bit more tired physically and mentally than in normal tournaments, but at the same time I, first of all I have compromised (committed) to the tournament and I hate to break that. And the second thing, I feel that even if I am not able to win a match, I will be able to play a few days here, practice while here."