Rafael Nadal is returning to the ATP Tour and is ready to go at the Brisbane International in 2024.
The Spaniard is playing in his first competition since January 2023, when he was forced to sit out owing to a series of ailments.
However, on his return to Brisbane, he has been on a roll, beating Dominic Thiem in the opening round and Jason Kubler 6-1, 6-2 in the Round of 16 on Thursday.
During his defeat to Kubler, Nadal got a time violation notice after returning from a lavatory break a few seconds late. However, the former World No. 1 was eager to explain his delay. He stated that Brisbane’s humidity compelled him to alter altogether.
Rafael Nadal describes a time violation
Rafael Nadal was asked in his post-match interview what transpired during the tie that led to the time violation warning.
He remarked lightheartedly that it was unusual, especially given the time he had. He added that owing to the humid conditions on location, he had to change every article of his clothing during the break.
“I thought something was odd because I knew I only had 5 minutes.” To be honest, Brisbane is really humid. It took a bit since I had to modify everything, every element.” he stated
The 37-year-old joked that he wasn’t sure whether his time was up, but immediately added that he plans to improve his timekeeping skills in 2024.
Rafael Nadal will meet Jordan Thompson in the 2024 Brisbane International quarterfinals after defeating Jason Kubler. Thompson is now rated World No. 58. He defeated some major players throughout the 2023 season, including Gael Monfils, Stefanos Tsitsipas, Adrian Mannarino, and Alexander Zverev.
Nadal and Jordan Thompson have met twice on the ATP Tour. The Spaniard won both matches, the first at the 2020 Paris Masters and the second at the 2022 French Open.
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