Rafael Nadal was left without a choice when making a decision to play at the 2024 Indian Wells Open, according to his uncle, Toni Nadal.
The 22-time major winner is returning to the ATP Tour, after previously missing out on the Australian Open and later also withdrawing from the Qatar Open in Doha.
After the Netflix Slam, which is an exhibition event that he's set to play against Carlos Alcaraz, the Spanish player will compete in Indian Wells, making his first appearance at the ATP Masters 1000 event in Indian Wells since 2019.
Speaking to AS, Toni Nadal was asked whether the initial comeback looked positive. The Spaniard displayed a very solid level, and also his uncle was satisfied by what he saw in Brisbane.
"Yes, yes, very positive, because after so long without competing, I think he played at a good level. I see him training at the academy and I think that's how it is."
According to Toni Nadal, the decision to play at the Indian Wells Open was a no-brainer. The 22-time Grand Slam champion was left with "no choice" as he needs to play matches to become competitive again.
"It's that he needs to compete. He has no choice. He hasn't done it for too long. And of course, if you don't compete, you can't be prepared."
Finally, the Spanish coach was also asked whether this year would be the last that his nephew would compete on the ATP Tour. There are still divided opinions on whether that will happen, as also the player himself doesn't know whether he will continue or not.
According to Uncle Toni, all depends on how the 37-year-old feels on the tennis court, because as Rafael said himself, if he feels competitive, there is not reason not to continue.
"This will depend on how the year goes, how he feels physically, how he looks. We're going to wait."
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