Rafael Nadal marked a remarkable singles comeback on Tuesday, securing a straight-sets victory over Austria’s Dominic Thiem at the Brisbane International in Australia.
This marked Nadal’s return to singles competition after nearly a year, during which he grappled with injuries throughout the previous season.
Having played his first match since January of the previous year in the doubles category on Sunday alongside partner Marc Lopez, the Spanish duo faced defeat against Australians Max Purcell and Jordan Thompson.
espite the loss, Nadal exhibited flashes of his exceptional skills, setting the stage for his subsequent singles performance.
In his triumphant match against former world No. 3 Thiem, Nadal showcased his trademark agility and skill, reminiscent of his prime years.
Despite his earlier statement in May hinting at 2024 being his final year on tour, Nadal, on Sunday, left the possibility open for extending his career beyond that timeframe.
“You never know what’s going on, you know? I can’t predict how I’m going to be in the next six months,” Nadal said, according to Reuters.
“I can’t predict if my body will allow me to enjoy tennis as much as I enjoyed the past 20 years.”
As he advances to the round of 16, Nadal is scheduled to face Australian Jason Kubler on Thursday. With the Brisbane International often serving as a preparatory event for the Australian Open, Nadal aims to make a grand slam return in Melbourne later this month, a tournament he has clinched twice before.
