Spanish tennis star Rafael Nadal is trying to temper expectations – especially his own – ahead of his comeback on tour. “I’m ready and I hope everything goes well and I can enjoy it on the court,” said the 22-time Grand Slam winner in an Instagram video. “But I don’t expect anything from myself.”
Rafa has been sidelined for almost a year now. He wants to return to the tennis court at the ATP tournament in Brisbane (December 31st to January 7th). It is important for him not to want too much. “I need the ability to not ask of myself what I have asked of myself my entire career,” said the 37-year-old.
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Rafael Nadal In Uncharted Territory
“I am in unexplored territory,” Nadal continued: “I have internalized the need to demand the maximum from myself. Now I hope I can accept that things will be very difficult at first and give myself the time I need.”
After the tournament in Brisbane, Nadal also plans to compete in the 2024 Australian Open in Melbourne (from January 14th). The injury happened in the second round of the 2023 Australian Open, and he has had hip problems ever since.
In early June, Nadal underwent arthroscopic hip surgery to repair his injured left hip flexor. Now, nearly seven months later, Rafa is ready to get back on the courts and compete.
Do you think he can win the Australian Open for 23 total Slams? Do you think he will ever win again? Let’s discuss in the comments below!