WATCH: Rafael Nadal returns to practice as fans await his return to the Tour in possibly his ‘farewell’ season

Fans were elated as Rafael Nadal was seen practicing following his withdrawal from the 2023 season. 

WATCH: Rafael Nadal returns to practice as fans await his return to the Tour in possibly his ‘farewell’ season

Nadal practising (Via Instagram)

22-time Grand Slam title winner Rafael Nadal, one of the greatest tennis players of all time, has finally revealed an update on his health. The Spanish maestro posted on his Instagram a video of him practicing ahead of a fresh season in 2024. Tennis enthusiasts and fans are now awaiting the return of the clay court master in 2024.

Rafael Nadal was last seen at the Australian Open, where he only got past the first round of the tournament. The Spanish star lost in straight sets against Mackenzie McDonald in the second round and faced a huge upset early on. He has been out due to recurring injuries, and the latest Instagram video of him practicing is the most tennis fans have seen from the Spaniard.

YouTube video

The video captured the intense practice session where Nadal was seen hitting powerful shots with his trademark spirit and intensity. As fans rejoice at the update from Nadal, some are not eager to witness the “farewell” season. Regardless, the Spaniard looks at 2024 as his farewell season, and if his body allows it, he wants to perform at his best.

FS Video

Related: Carlos Alcaraz adamant on chasing down Novak Djokovic before end of season, claims defeat against Jannik Sinner changes nothing

Rafael Nadal stands third in the vote for the GOATS

In a recent EXPRESS SPORT’s GOAT survey, fans were made to finally settle the GOAT debate and choose a player who is capable of being the greatest of all time in tennis. He finished third in the poll, where the majority of the fans voted for Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer. 

(L) Novak Djokovic, (R) Rafael Nadal
(L) Novak Djokovic, (R) Rafael Nadal (Via The Guardian)

The debate over who is the best player has been going on for decades and will never come to an end, but according to the survey, Nadal finished low. After Roger Federer hung up his racket last year, there are speculations that Nadal might be the second of the Big Three to retire. 

The Spaniard has hinted at 2024 being his farewell season, and this will leave Novak as the only one from the trio to continue dominating as he currently is. As the 2023 season comes to an end, tennis enthusiasts are contemplating the impact of Nadal’s potential retirement on the sport. His exit will undoubtedly leave a void in the world of tennis, but his achievements will always speak on his behalf, and fans will cherish the little moments Nadal will entertain them in the near future.

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