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via Imago

via Imago

Despite being away from action, all the spotlight has been on Rafael Nadal surrounding his comeback. Earlier this month, he pulled out of the Monte Carlo Masters, the first Masters tournament on clay this season. It was a disappointing update for his fans as Nadal was tipped to play the entire clay-court season. However, his fans have something to cheer about now as Nadal’s comeback tournament has been hinted at.

Earlier today, pictures of the Spaniard returning to training went viral on social media. Nadal was seen arriving for a practice session in Barcelona, effectively confirming his participation in the upcoming Barcelona Open, where he is a 12-time champion.

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However, Nadal’s last victory here came in 2021 when he defeated Stefanos Tsitsipas in the summit clash to win the title. Subsequently, he has missed the next two editions of the tournament due to injuries and plans to return to his home soil this year.

The ATP 500 Barcelona Open, scheduled to take place next week, will act as a warm-up tournament for Nadal before the French Open. It could also potentially be his final appearance here as Nadal has hinted that he will retire after the 2024 season.

Further, the Spaniard announced his withdrawal from the Monte Carlo Masters just days before the tournament. Subsequently, he has been training hard to return to the court and recently provided his injury update.

Rafael Nadal hopeful of a positive return

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History has it that every time Nadal is injured, he has made a strong comeback in his career. So it won’t be a surprise to see Nadal go all guns blazing after he returns to the court.

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During an interview with Movistar as reported by the Independent, Nadal opened up about his current condition. He said, “On a professional level, it is difficult and you also have to weigh the bad moments and those you would never have imagined experiencing.”

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Further, he went on to add, “I don’t rule out anything, not even being in Barcelona or Madrid, but at the moment I am not able to get there due to physical problems.”

However, recent glimpses show that Nadal has made his way to Barcelona and is already out in the sun, practicing in full swing. Finally, there is something to cheer for his fans as Nadal will be seen in action soon.