Australian Open chief Craig Tiley appears to have dismissed speculation that Rafael Nadal is set to retire by confirming the tennis legend is set to compete at January’s Australian Open.
The 37-year-old hasn’t played a competitive match since his shock second round defeat in Melbourne against Mackenzie McDonald earlier this year.
A hip injury forced the Spaniard to make the painful decision to withdraw from both the French Open and Wimbledon during the summer and focus on his rehabilitation.
During a lengthy period of inactivity, speculation has been rife that the 22 time Grand Slam champion would call time on his illustrious career has been rife.
In his absence, Novak Djokovic has surpassed his majors haul but Tiley insists Nadal will be back in January to compete against one of his greatest rivals again.
‘We can reveal exclusively here that Rafa will be back,’ Tiley told the Today show.
‘He’s been off for most of the year, and in talking to him over the last few days he confirmed he will be back, which we’re really excited about. That’s awesome.’
Nadal, meanwhile, has hardly spoken publicly on his future since the lengthy press conference he gave back in May when he detailed the painful decision he had made to swerve the clay court season.
‘After many years playing there, you can imagine how much of a difficult decision it’s been for me,’ he said. This isn’t a decision I’ve made, it’s a decision my body has made. I’m not going to be playing for the next few months.’
Asked about taking a break from the game, he said: ‘I’ve got to draw a line and that’s what I’m doing now.
‘Over the next few months I’m going to strengthen my physical state and recuperate.
‘I need to put my career on hold and I’m going to try and regenerate my body.
‘I’m not going to set a deadline – that’s going to be when I will feel ready physically.’
MORE : Novak Djokovic breaks Roger Federer record as Rafael Nadal’s uncle aims dig at him
MORE : Rafael Nadal congratulates Carlos Alcaraz after he beats Novak Djokovic in epic Wimbledon final
For more stories like this, check our sport page.
Follow Metro Sport for the latest news on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
