Rafael Nadal has been spotted training following surgery as he prepares to return in 2024 for what could be a potential farewell tour.

22-time Grand Slam champion Nadal has been absent from the sport since his defeat in the second round of the Australian Open at the start of the year.

Since then, the Big Three member has been recovering from injury and underwent arthroscopic surgery in June. Now, pictures and videos showing Nadal training at the gym have been posted by sources close to him, leading fans to start getting excited for his return next year.

However, the 37-year-old is yet to return to the tennis courts, as his doctors advised him to allow a lengthy period for tendon regeneration.

Nadal held a press conference ahead of the 2023 French Open in May, a Grand Slam that he was forced to miss this year after having dominated it over previous years, lifting the trophy 14 times.

At the conference, he confirmed that he was taking a leave of absence to have surgery and subsequently let his body recover. He also announced that 2024 could be his final year on the ATP Tour after two decades.

Despite dealing with injuries and surgery, Nadal appears to be enjoying his time away from the sport. He recently attended a graduation ceremony at the Rafa Nadal Academy where WTA world No. 1 Iga Swiatek was among those attending.

Moreover, he has been on vacation to Greece with his wife Maria Francisca Perello, and there have been rumors that he could also be looking into a new career post-tennis by becoming the next president of football club Real Madrid CF. 

Nevertheless, the tennis legend is still planning to return to the sport, even if just for another year. In fact, he has even spoken of his intention to play at the 2024 Olympic Games, held at his beloved Roland Garros.