WATCH: Rafael Nadal jokes girlfriend got 'wild card' to attend Australian Open

The world number nine looks rejuvenated in Melbourne.

Rafael Nadal joked about giving his girlfriend a wild card to attend the Australian Open but the Spaniard played like a champion as he cruised past Gael Monfils.

Nadal had not made it to the last eight of a major tournament since the French Open in 2015, but he continued his resurgence on Rod Laver Arena by beating Frenchman Monfils 6-3 6-3 4-6 6-4.