As Rafael Nadal continues to recover from his recent injury, the tennis world is abuzz with anticipation for the return of the "King of Clay."
Nadal has faced a challenging start to the 2023 season, with three losses in four matches played. The Australian Open marked the last event he competed in, as an injury forced him to step away from the game.
However, Rafa's fans have reason to be optimistic as the 22-time Grand Slam champion is now set to make his comeback on his favorite surface – clay. First, he signed up for the 2023 Monte-Carlo Masters, as the tournament director revealed that he was the first player to sign up.
Eager to regain his winning form, Nadal has added the 2023 Barcelona Open to his upcoming schedule, setting the stage for a thrilling tournament featuring a star-studded lineup.
Last year, the Barcelona Open saw a new champion emerge in the form of the talented Carlos Alcaraz, who took advantage of Nadal's absence to claim the title. This year, Alcaraz will face the challenge of defending his crown against not only Nadal but also an impressive lineup that includes Greek talent Stefanos Tsitsipas and Norwegian powerhouse Casper Ruud.
The Barcelona Open has always held a special place in Rafa's heart, and a 13th title could very well be the catalyst for an unforgettable comeback story.
In the recent weeks, the Spaniard was seen on clay courts, practicing for the European clay-court swing, which should peak with his Roland Garros participation and challenge for the 15th title in the French capital, which would be his 23rd major.