Rafael Nadal’s comeback ‘going better than expected’ so far, says uncle Toni ahead of Brisbane quarter-final

Rafael Nadal’s comeback has gone even “better than expected” so far and he has the chance to perform well at the Australian Open, according to his uncle Toni.

Nadal missed almost all of the 2023 season due to injuries and then surgery, but has looked sharp on his return in Brisbane this week.

He will face Jordan Thompson in the quarter-finals of the tournament.

“It’s true that we have to see it in more difficult matches, but at the moment things are going better than we expected.”

Nadal’s performances in Brisbane have raised expectations that he could be a threat at the Australian Open, which starts on January 14.

He will be unseeded at the Grand Slam, where he is a two-time champion.

“I think if in Brisbane he can play more matches competing with high-quality players and at the Australia Open the draw favours him, as he is not seeded, I think it will be possible to see him having a good tournament,” Toni Nadal said.

Asked about potential retirement after this season, uncle Toni said: “I think Rafa will take it day by day and depending on how things go and how competitive he looks.

“Even though he has said that it is his last year, we will almost certainly see.”

Nadal has won 10 of his past 11 tour-level matches against Australian opponents ahead of facing another in Thompson.

He admitted he is pleased to get time on court as he continues to build up to the Australian Open.

“I need matches, I need health, I need to keep practising well and of course the past two matches here help, and even the doubles on the first day,” he said.

“Of course, victories and hours spent on court help. For me, every day that I have the chance to play is great news, so I’m just happy for that, happy that I came back after a long time and feel competitive. Let’s see how far I can go.”