WATCH: Spanish legend Rafael Nadal reveals comeback date to professional tennis after year-long break

Spanish legend Rafael Nadal announced his return to professional tennis after a year-long absence. The 22-time Grand Slam champion has been plagued by numerous injuries, forcing him to miss a series of tournaments and a major drop in his career ranking. 

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However, Nadal is eyeing a comeback at the Brisbane International in Australia, which kicks off on December 31. The 37-year-old announced the latest developments in an emotional video posted on his X (formerly known as Twitter) handle on Friday (December 1). “After a year away from competition, it’s time to come back. It will be in Brisbane, the first week of January. I’ll see you there."

Watch the video below: 

🎧👀💪🏻😉 pic.twitter.com/iH7NvsQGMT

— Rafa Nadal (@RafaelNadal) December 1, 2023

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Brisbane International is a warm-up event ahead of this year’s Australian Open. Notably, Nadal suffered a hip flexor injury in his second-round loss at the Australian Open and has not played on tour since last January. Ahead of the 2023 French Open, the 14-time winner had announced he would miss the tournament and is unsure exactly when he will return to play.

The former World No. 1 had also indicated that he aims to return in 2024, but probably for his last dance. “You never know how things will turn out. But my intention is that next year will be my last year," Nadal said at a news conference at the time. 

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Last month, the chief executive of the Australian Open Craig Tiley dropped a hint of Nadal’s comeback. He then recently expressed confidence in the Spaniard playing in Melbourne. 

The Manacor-born tennis player's participation in Brisbane International means that he will be competing in the upcoming Australian Open. Notably, Nadal is a two-time Australian Open winner.