Rafael Nadal is set to return to ATP competition at the Barcelona Open next week, marking his first official match since January. The 22-time Grand Slam champion, who experienced a hip injury setback during his quarterfinal match at the Brisbane Open, has only played one exhibition match since then.
The Barcelona Open is receiving a boost with the participation of Nadal's fellow Spaniard Carlos Alcaraz, currently ranked No. 3 in the world. Alcaraz, who missed the Monte Carlo Masters due to a right arm injury, joins the tournament as the two-time defending champion, earning a first-round bye as a seeded player.
Having missed most of the 2023 season due to injury, Nadal's return to competition is eagerly anticipated by fans and tennis enthusiasts. With the French Open approaching in June, where he aims to secure a record 15th title, Nadal will be keen to maximize his clay court preparation time and make the most of what could potentially be his final year on the tour.
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