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via Getty

via Getty

After a torrid year with injuries, things finally seem to be going the way of Rafael Nadal. Earlier today, the Spanish tennis legend registered a victory on his comeback. He defeated Dominic Thiem in the first round of the Brisbane International comfortably in straight sets 7-5, 6-1. Nadal showed no signs of rustiness as he cruised to a victory. Following his win, he shared an emotional message that caught the attention of Carlos Alcaraz and Nadal’s sister, Maribel Nadal.

While Nadal is sweating it out in Brisbane, Alcaraz isn’t playing the warm-up tournaments in the lead-up to the Australian Open. On the other hand, he is practicing hard for the Grand Slam Down Under. Here’s how Nadal’s message was received by Alcaraz and Maribel Nadal.

Carlos Alcaraz and Maribel Nadal react to emotional Rafael Nadal message

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After his thumping victory over Thiem, Nadal took to social media to share his thoughts on his comeback victory. He posted a picture of him in action on his official Instagram handle. Additionally, he also shared an emotional message that caught the attention of Alcaraz and Nadal’s sister.

Nadal’s message read, “Very emotional day for me. Now back at the hotel I can share with you some pictures of today’s match.
As you all know it wasn’t just another match… I am very happy to have had the chance to feel the competition.”

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Further, he went on to add, “There’s been a lot of effort and work to come back. Anything could have happened in a day like today after such a long time without playing a professional tennis match. I am happy with the way it all went.”

 

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A post shared by Rafa Nadal (@rafaelnadal)

Nadal also thanked the fans and his family and friends who supported him on his comeback. Reacting to this message, Alcaraz said, “What a joy to see you again on track Rafa!” Bringing out similar emotions, Nadal’s sister, Maribel Nadal said, “Vamoosss.” Alcaraz is a big fan of Nadal and has been hugely inspired by him. Ahead of Nadal’s comeback, he had some inspiring words for his idol.

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What did Alcaraz say before Nadal’s comeback?

While Nadal was out of action due to injuries last year, Alcaraz carried his country’s hopes on his shoulders. He did it brilliantly, winning the Wimbledon Championships. As Nadal readied for a comeback, Alcaraz had some positive motivation for him.

He said, “I think he’s ready. I saw videos of him in training, he looks 100%. Other players told me that they had trained with Rafa in recent weeks and that he will return to the tour with a good level. His best level. I think he is ready to do great things in 2024.”

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Going by the looks of today’s performance, Nadal looks like he never has been away from tennis. Can he continue his winning run and dig deep in Brisbane? Let us know your views in the comments below.

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