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MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA – JANUARY 22: Milos Raonic of Canada celebrates after winning match point during his Men’s Singles second round match against Cristian Garin of Chile on day three of the 2020 Australian Open at Melbourne Park on January 22, 2020 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Mark Kolbe/Getty Images)
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via Getty
MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA – JANUARY 22: Milos Raonic of Canada celebrates after winning match point during his Men’s Singles second round match against Cristian Garin of Chile on day three of the 2020 Australian Open at Melbourne Park on January 22, 2020 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Mark Kolbe/Getty Images)
The National Bank Open has long been renowned for producing some of the brightest tennis stars in the world. Not only that, but the tournament has also witnessed some of the most exhilarating matches in the sport’s history. As anticipation builds, this year’s event is all set to commence on August 4th and will continue until August 13th. With several prominent names gracing the tournament, one player stands out among the rest, Milos Raonic.
The player from Canada did not have a sensational run of form in the last few matches but is keen on making a change when he plays next. Seeing that Raonic might well be playing in front of his home crowd for the last time, the tournament organizers decided to do something special.
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Milos Raonic makes a sensational return in front of his home crowd
Milos Raonic, the Canadian tennis sensation, is making a much-awaited comeback to the National Bank Open after a prolonged absence. The 32-year-old from Thornhill, Ontario, has received a wild-card entry into the tournament’s main draw, marking his first appearance in four years. This return holds great significance for Raonic, as it may well be his last opportunity to compete in the prestigious event.
His return to the event generates a sense of excitement and nostalgia, evoking memories of his remarkable performances in the past. As a proud Canadian, Raonic holds a special place in the hearts of local fans who eagerly await his triumphant comeback on home soil.
AMAZING news just in for the #NBO23 📢
Former World No.3, 2013 NBO and 2016 Wimbledon finalist Milos Raonic has been awarded a main draw wild card!
Catch the Canadian's return to Toronto in August 🇨🇦 pic.twitter.com/Ossv1IDUv1
— National Bank Open (@NBOtoronto) July 12, 2023
Raonic’s determination to make this comeback stems from his desire to seize the opportunity to play in front of his hometown crowd. The prospect of bidding farewell to the National Bank Open in the city he holds dear adds a layer of significance to his participation. With a clear objective in mind and a strict timeline to adhere to, Raonic’s preparations have been focused and meticulous.
Raonic hints at the possibility of this being his final tournament
When asked about the possibility of this being his final National Bank Open, Raonic expressed his contemplation. “I think there’s a good possibility,” he stated. “When I decided to make a comeback, the inclusion of Wimbledon and the National Bank Open being held in Toronto, my hometown, were pivotal factors,” said Raonic as per an article from CBC.
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“The next chance to play in Toronto would have been two years away. And all those kind of things, they were definitely on my mind when I was focusing on getting ready and getting my body right … it gave me a very clear objective knowing that there was a really strict timeline that I had to really adhere to and focus on getting ready for.”
Raonic acknowledged that the next chance to play in Toronto would have been two years away. This realization fueled his determination to prepare himself physically and mentally for the tournament. However, amidst the excitement surrounding his comeback, there is an underlying sense of bittersweet anticipation. Raonic acknowledges that this year’s National Bank Open might mark the end of an era for him.
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via Getty
MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA – JANUARY 22: Milos Raonic of Canada celebrates after winning match point during his Men’s Singles second round match against Cristian Garin of Chile on day three of the 2020 Australian Open at Melbourne Park on January 22, 2020 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Mark Kolbe/Getty Images)
As the National Bank Open approaches, tennis enthusiasts eagerly await the return of Milos Raonic to the tournament after his four-year hiatus. Known for his powerful serve and aggressive playing style, Raonic has achieved significant success throughout his career, reaching the final of Wimbledon in 2016. His return to the National Bank Open promises to add a thrilling chapter to his remarkable journey.
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