I want to enjoy every moment – Rafael Nadal on returning to Barcelona Open

Rafael Nadal is all set to return to the tour as he will take part in the Barcelona Open. The veteran Spaniard will face Italy’s Flavio Cobolli in the opening round of the tournament. Nadal said he is going to enjoy every moment of the competition and give his all in what will be his swansong performance in Barcelona.

Nadal has battled through multiple injuries since the 2023 Australian Open and unfortunately, he has been forced on the sidelines. The 22-time Grand Slam champion had last played in the Brisbane Open, earlier in the year but was ruled out of action due to a muscle tear.

He was looking to make his much-anticipated comeback in the Indian Wells but had to opt-out at the 11th minute.

“I came here a bit on a last-minute decision, not knowing if I could play but tomorrow I’ll be on the court,” revealed Nadal. “For me it’s a gift to be able to be here in Barcelona, I will treat it as my last year [here] and I want to enjoy every moment.”

Nadal had earlier revealed that 2024 will be his final season on the tour and he wants to bid adieu to the game on a high.

“My feelings in training have been better than those I had in Mallorca,” said Nadal. “My body sensations have also been better and I feel ready to compete.

“Then we’ll see what happens. I haven’t been able to practice service much. I will try to take on the burdens progressively. There is uncertainty, but it is what it is.”

The 22-time Grand Slam champion continued, “You have to live with it. Within all of this, you have to be able to see things positively and be able to enjoy competing again, being in a tennis tournament, and here I am. What may or may not happen is less important to me.”

Nadal is a 12-time champion at Barcelona Open and he will look to be at his best on his return.