Rafael Nadal is set to make his comeback at the Barcelona Open, while Jack Draper and Emma Raducanu will compete in Munich and Stuttgart respectively. Nadal, a 12-time champion in Barcelona, has confirmed his readiness to face Flavio Cobolli in the first round today at 3 p.m BST.
Despite not playing since the Brisbane International in January due to a micro muscle tear, Nadal expressed his fitness in a press conference on Monday and intends to continue practicing on clay in preparation for the tournament. The 37-year-old, a record 14-time winner at the French Open, has had to postpone his return following the injury in Brisbane, leading to withdrawals from several tournaments.
However, he aims to regain form on his favored surface, with the French Open looming on May 20. Stefanos Tsitsipas, who recently won the Monte Carlo title, believes Nadal remains a formidable opponent on clay, predicting a potential appearance by Nadal in the Barcelona final.
Tsitsipas emphasized Nadal's competitiveness and experience, stating that Nadal's prowess on clay makes him the ultimate challenge for any opponent, regardless of his stage in his career.Â
