Rafael Nadal Makes Remarkable Comeback and Leaves Door Open for Future Beyond 2024
Rafael Nadal returns from injury, impressively making a comeback at the Brisbane International alongside partner Marc Lopez The tennis legend keeps fans guessing about his future plans, refusing to rule out playing beyond 2024
Rafael Nadal, who hadn't played in a match since January due to injury, made his comeback on Sunday at the Brisbane International. He played with doubles partner Marc Lopez and despite their loss to Australians Max Purcell and Jordan Thompson, Nadal showed potential with powerful shots and improved court movement after undergoing hip surgery for his injury. Nadal also hinted at the possibility of continuing to play beyond the 2024 season.
The 22-time grand slam champion has been dealing with a recent string of injuries and indicated in May that 2024 may mark the end of his time on tour. However, during his comeback match on Sunday, he left the possibility of continuing beyond that open. "The issue with declaring that it will be my final season is that I cannot guarantee what will happen in the future. That's the reality," Nadal stated, as reported by Reuters. "That's why I use the word 'probably'."
"It's clear that there's a high likelihood that this will be my last time playing in Australia. But if I'm here next year, please don't say, 'You said it was going to be your last season,' because I never said that," he added.
"You never know what the future holds, you know? I can't predict how I'll be in the next six months. I can't say for sure if my body will allow me to enjoy tennis as much as I have for the past 20 years."
Nadal is preparing to return to the Australian Open.
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Some of Nadals competitors, including Holger Rune and Andy Murray, have noted the "intensity" with which he is playing, but the 37-year-old played down their comments.
According to the Brisbane International website, he stated, "If you ask my colleagues about my performance, they won't come and say, 'Rafa is playing like a disaster.' I don't put much value on their opinions because if you ask me about their performance, I would say they're playing great too. I don't speak negatively about my colleagues."
Nadal is set to make his singles comeback on Tuesday in the first round at the Brisbane International, facing former world No. 3 Dominic Thiem. The tournament is popular among players preparing for the Australian Open. Following this, the Spaniard will make his grand slam return at the Australian Open, a tournament he has won twice and which kicks off on January 14.
