Rafael Nadal could return quicker than expected if reports are to be believed from the 2024
Australian Open with the Qatar Open between 19-24 February, 2024 seemingly being targeted by his team to return.
Nadal made a triumphant return to the Brisbane International and won two matches against Dominic Thiem and Jason Kubler, but amid a micro tear to his thigh spurned five match points against Jordan Thompson and later withdrew from the Australian Open. There were signs that he would be back quicker with the Spaniard back in training over the next week, but there seems to be concrete plans.
Laura Robson speaking on Eurosport said she has spoken to 'top Spanish coaches' this week and that he is planning to return at the Qatar Open in 36 days time. It is also interesting to note that he did plan to play Doha, Dubai, Indian Wells last year before he got injured at the Australian Open so there is likely going to be the same thought process.
Some though see Nadal playing hard courts as not conducive to producing his best on his return, with action gearing up to clay after that and Nadal could've played Cordoba or Rio for instance with Carlos Alcaraz in particular not playing pre Australian Open seemingly to prioritise the South American swing post AO 2024.
But despite being the King of Clay, if it does get confirmed, it seems he is gearing up on all surfaces despite his recent injury scare.
