Rafael Nadal to compete in Monte Carlo after Daniil Medvedev's scare

Namely, Rafa practiced with world no. 2 Daniil Medvedev on Monday, and the Russian tested positive on that day (the results came on Tuesday). Daniil withdrew from Monte Carlo and embraced the quarantine, while Nadal's fans feared the same could happen with their player after spending time with the Russian. Instead, Nadal's test was negative, and the Spaniard will kick off the Monte Carlo campaign on Wednesday, seeking the 12th title in the Principality.

Monte Carlo is only the second event for Nadal in 2021, losing to Stefanos Tsitsipas in thrilling five sets at the Australian Open after wasting a massive advantage and not competing since.

Dealing with a back injury since January, the 20-time Major champion skipped Rotterdam and Miami, practicing on clay at his Rafa Nadal Academy in Mallorca and recharging batteries ahead of one of his favorite events in the calendar. Rafa claimed 11 Monte Carlo titles between 2005-2018, losing in the semi-final two years ago and hoping to regain the trophy.

"Rafael Nadal is absolutely fine. As we understand, the virus does not anyways show before three-four days. The next scheduled testing is in three days," Benito Perez-Barbadillo said.