Rafael Nadal reveals his emotional journey as he makes his ATP Tour comeback in Brisbane

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Rafael Nadal is making his ATP Tour comeback
Rafael Nadal is making his ATP Tour comeback

Rafael Nadal delivered an emotional interview after he completed a successful return to the ATP Tour with a hugely impressive victory against Dominic Thiem in Brisbane.

The 22-time Grand Slam champion was contesting his first singles match since a second-round loss at the Australian Open 349 days ago, but he showed some fine form to seal a 7-5 6-1 win.

Playing in front of a packed crowd for the first time in almost a year, this was an emotional day for Nadal and he confirmed as much in an emotional on-court interview.

“Today is an emotional and important day after one of the toughest years of my tennis career,” said Nadal.

“I played at a very positive level for my first day [back] and that will make me, my team and my family feel proud – they have been there every single day during the last year.

“The first set was very equal with both of us serving well. Then I was able to grab that break at 6-5 so that made a difference.

“I know Dominic has been going through some hard times with injuries too so I’m happy to see him back on court and I wish him all the very best for the season.

“I missed being healthy, feeling myself competitive and playing in front of full crowds like this in Australia, that has always been supportive to me. I can’t thank enough everyone.”

Nadal went on to pay tribute to his team sitting at courtside, with his father among an extended group that included his father Sebastian and his coach Carlos Moya.

“I don’t know how competitive I am, I have been away for too long,” added Nadal. “I have received thousands of messages all this year from people wishing me well and having a great team around me has always helped.

“I was focused to be on court and to try and remember how to play in a competitive, professional match. I had nerves before the match and, of course, some doubts because I have been away for so long.”

This was a hugely impressive return from Nadal, but we should not have expected anything less from this remarkable champion.

While most players might expect to edge their way back into action after so long away from the court, Nadal is not in Australia to make up the numbers and wave to crowds on what may be his final competitive visit to the country.

The hip issue that cost him a year of his career appearing to be resolved as his movement from side to side was impressive for a player who has been out for so long.

The aura Nadal brings onto court will never fade and on the evidence of this opening performance, he will be a huge threat in the Australian Open draw, where he will be unseeded.

It is too early to assess whether Nadal will be a threat to take the title he last won at Melbourne amid another comeback effort in 2022, but the early signs sugggest the Nadal of old may still rise to the surface at some point in 2024.

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