Rafael Nadal knocked out of Aussie Open

Rafael Nadal (Photosport)

Rafael Nadal's Australian Open has come to a premature end after losing to compatriot Fernando Verdasco in the first round.

In a rematch of their five-hour 2009 semi-final, Verdasco came out on top 7-6, 4-6, 3-6, 7-6, 6-2 in another marathon affair.

It is only the second time in Nadal's career he's exited a grand slam in the first round.

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