Rafael Nadal is back for the next Australian Open?

Rafael Nadal is not ready to retire yet. As the first man of Australian tennis, Craig Tiley, pointed out, the Spaniard promised him that he would participate in the first Grand Slam tournament next year, the Australian Open.

He revealed that the "King of Clay" is preparing to participate in Melbourne, where he could start the last season of his career.

"I have exclusive information that Rafa is coming back to Melbourne. He has been out for a long time and we have spoken in the past few days. He has confirmed that he is coming back next year, which is exciting and really great news for everyone," Tiley told Australian media.

Nadal has only played one tournament this year and had hip surgery at the beginning of June and returned to training at his Academy in the Balearics just a week ago. He worked on the hard surface, which many interpreted as his intention to play at the Australian Open.

"I want to give myself a chance to compete again and it will be my last year. I hope that 2024 will not be the year that I just show up, but that I will play and win tournaments. It will be difficult, but that is what we all hope for." , Rafa said back in May.

However, even though the desire exists, the next period will show whether Nadal can get ready in time for the tournament in Melbourne or for one of the preparatory tournaments before the Australian Open, Marca reports.

Naomi Osaka is also expected to return to Melbourne, and Tiley confirmed that Nick Kyrgios could also be at the tournament.

"This will be a tournament of the return of greats and champions who have been on the sidelines for the past few years. I know that Nick is training and we expect him to return."