Rafael Nadal confirms appearance at Barcelona Open but suggests 2024 will be his last on tour
- Get the latest update on tennis icon Rafael Nadal as he confirms his appearance at the Barcelona Open while hinting that the 2024 season might mark his final tour, sparking speculation and reflection on his illustrious career.
In his first appearance on the circuit since January, Rafael Nadal says he is “just trying to enjoy every moment” at this week’s Barcelona Open.
Nadal made his injury comeback in Brisbane after nearly a year away, but he hasn’t played since due to a hip problem. The 37-year-old confirmed the rumors that this will be his final tour year by saying it “means” a lot to play “one more time” in Barcelona.
“I can’t give you an injury update because the list is long,” Nadal stated.
“I can only tell you that today I feel good enough to be on court tomorrow and that for me is so important.”
Murray’s ankle ailment does not require surgery.
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The 22-time Grand Slam singles champion Rafael Nadal, a Spaniard, has struggled with injuries recently.
He announced his intention to retire after the 2024 season after withdrawing from the French Open the previous year, but upon his return to Brisbane, he implied he may play on if healthy.
He has won the tournament a record twelve times, and his match on Tuesday in Barcelona against Italian Flavio Cobolli, 21, will be his first on clay since winning the 2022 French Open final.
It is possible that he will compete in Roland Garros, where he has won 14 of his major titles, next month, given his return this week.
“It means a lot to me to be able to play one more time here in Barcelona, a place where I have amazing success and a lot of unforgettable memories,” he stated.
“I’m just trying to enjoy every second of it, and I’m looking forward to competing in a professional event once more, especially here at home.
“Over the past two years, I haven’t been able to go on many tour days, so I simply want to appreciate every day that I get to play professionally with the guys. That is really important to me.”
In another match in the draw, American Brandon Nakashima, 22, defeated British player Dan Evans 7-6 (7-2) 6-2.
However, in the opening round of the Bavarian International in Munich, Czech world number 119 Vit Kopriva was defeated by British number two Jack Draper, who was ranked three spots higher than Evans.
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