Rafael
Nadal is back on the tennis courts, and fans are excited about his return.
The 22-time
Grand Slam champion had been sidelined since his second-round defeat at the
2023 Australian Open against Mackenzie McDonald due to injuries, which forced
him to withdraw from subsequent tournaments.
He
announced before Roland Garros that he would take some time for recovery and is
aiming to return in 2024, possibly for his last professional season:
"I
don't think I deserve to end like this. I have worked hard so that my end is
not here, in a press conference. I am going to fight so that the end is not
like this," he said on his announcement at press conference.
“My
intention is that next year be my last, and to be able to play the tournaments,
I want to say goodbye to those who have marked me. If you're not happy, it ends
up affecting your personal life," Nadal added.
Nadal, aged
37, recently posted a video on Instagram showing him back on the tennis court,
playing on a hard court surface. This marks his first appearance in training
since his injuries.
"The power
and emotions brought by Rafa are so high. Was having a bad day and seeing this
made me feel amazing again. THE KING IS WORKING AND FIGHTING !!!" some fan
wrote.
“I never
imagined a single clip can improve my mood and make me cry at the same time. Its
good to see you practice again Rafa. Hoping to see you back soon on the tour. VAMOSSSSSS!!!!!
“Looks like he put on
weight. Need to do a lot to get back in shape,” another fan added.
“Hopefully
he stays for Tours ,GS and beyond. Novak's dominance in recent times has been
one sided,needs some sort of competition.”