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Rafael Nadal Comeback Could Shake Up Federer-Djokovic Legacy Battle

May 29, 2025, 12:13 am

Rafael Nadal might have confessed that he hasn’t touched the racquet since last November, when he officially retired from professional tennis, but a return is on the cards for the Spaniard as there is speculation that he will return to the courts to put a new spin on his long-running bout with Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic.

Toni Nadal Sparks Speculation of Exhibition Matches

It was Rafa’s uncle and former coach Toni Nadal who intimated that the 38-year-old might soon be witnessed in action playing exhibition matches against Federer and even Djokovic, who recently asserted before the beginning of the French Open that his career also is nearing its end.

“I imagine he’d like to do some exhibitions with Federer soon, to give back a little of everything tennis has given him and what tennis has meant to him,” Toni told CLAY and RG Media. “It would be very special for people to see the three of them playing again. And yes, I think they’ll have to do something, because I suppose people will be motivated to see them play later on.”

Toni Nadal Reflects on Rafa’s Passion for the Game

Even while conceding that it was not Rafa himself who suggested playing exhibition matches, but that Toni spelt out the reason why it was a strong possibility.

“I think I’ve been close enough to him to know him a little and know that he would be excited to play with Federer. Tennis has been a big part of his life, it’s meant a big part to him, and you don’t just erase it from one day to the next.

Icons of the Golden Era Unite at Nadal’s Farewell

Federer and Djokovic, who established a two-decade-old rivalry with Nadal, one that characterized the golden age in men’s tennis, were among those in attendance in Paris on Sunday for the 22-time Grand Slam champion’s farewell ceremony at the Court Philippe Chatrier. Andy Murray, with whom they made up the Big Four, was also in attendance.

Toni reckoned 2026 could be the year for Nadal’s return to the court, despite his nephew expecting the birth of his second child this year, and that he had given up on tennis because of his body. “After these months away from the courts, I think at some point he’ll want to get back to training and feel like he’s playing the ball well. I’m convinced that soon, quite soon, he’ll be back playing,” he added.

Tribute at Italian Open in the Works

A source from the Italian Tennis Federation (ITF) told CLAY that the organisers of the Italian Open are planning a tribute ceremony for Nadal next year. He had won the Rome Masters 10 times in his career. “In 2024, Nadal knew there was a tribute planned, but he didn’t want to do it. In 2026, it would be logical for us to pay tribute to him, and it’s clear that Paris has raised the bar significantly. The most important thing will be to do something he likes.”

Roland Garros Bids Farewell to ‘King of Clay’ Rafael Nadal in Grand Ceremony

May 26, 2025, 12:11 am

Rafael Nadal received a rousing welcome as the ‘King of Clay’ emerged onto Court Philippe Chatrier for the last time on Sunday during a career celebration ceremony at the French Open. The 38-year-old, who retired from the game last November, was treated to a tribute by the Roland Garros crowd, with fans donning various coloured t-shirts to spell out the message “14 RG, Rafa”. Nadal dominated the French Open after prevailing on debut as a teenager in 2005, taking the trophy an unprecedented 14 times. The Spaniard rounded out his career with a staggering 112-4 win-loss record at the clay-court Grand Slam.

Last Match and Career Reflections of Rafael Nadal

He won the title most recently in 2022 and played his last match on the Paris clay last year when he lost to Alexander Zverev in the opening round.

“I don’t know how to start… I’ve been playing on this court for 20 years. I suffered, I won, I lost. I have lived many emotions here on this court,” an emotional Nadal told the crowd after watching a video of his career highlights at Roland Garros.

Nadal’s Family and Former Coaches in Attendance

Nadal’s friends and family looked on from the player’s box, as did most of his former coaching staff, including uncle Toni.

“Without doubt, the most important tennis court of my career,” Nadal added to cheers.

“It’s been an incredible story that began back in 2004 when I came to Roland Garros for the very first time. I could barely walk on crutches due to a foot injury. I climbed to the top of the court and looked out and couldn’t wait to play here.”

Nadal took the title the following year after that injury reverse, beating Mariano Puerta in the final.

Djokovic, Federer, Murray Join Nadal on Court

Nadal’s arch-rivals Novak Djokovic, who had just won his 100th ATP title on Saturday, Roger Federer and Andy Murray all greeted him on the central Chatrier court.

The three friends stepped out following Nadal’s address to welcome their fellow former world number one, to deafening applause by fans.

Rafael Nadal Reflects on Rivalries and Friendships

“After all these years fighting for everything, it’s unbelievable how time changes the perspective of things,” Nadal said to the other members of the ‘Big Four’.

“All the nerves, pressure, strange feelings when you see each other when you’re rivals, it’s completely different when you finish your career.

“We built amazing rivalries but I think in a good way, we fought hard for titles but were good colleagues and respected one another…

“It means a lot that you’re all here. I really enjoyed a lot pushing myself to the limit every single day to compete with all of you.”

Retirement and Tribute Plans of Rafael Nadal

Nadal retired his racquet after the 2024 Davis Cup Finals in Malaga, first depriving him of a chance to bid farewell to his beloved fans in Paris.

His record of 14 victories at one Grand Slam will likely remain untouched, with only Margaret Court’s 11 Australian Open titles coming close.

A Unique Trophy for the King of Clay

Nadal was given a unique trophy to mark his French Open record, with an impression of his footprint etched into the clay.

The 22 Grand Slam title winner was given a farewell after his last match during the Davis Cup, but French tennis federation boss Gilles Moretton had stated earlier this year that “the tribute was not, in my opinion, what it should have been”.

He told he had visited Nadal at his house in December with Roland Garros tournament director Amelie Mauresmo to plan for Sunday’s ceremony.

‘I Don’t Miss Tennis at All’: Rafael Nadal Reflects After Winning Laureus Award 2025

April 22, 2025, 3:45 pm

Tennis legend Rafael Nadal, who retired in November 2024, has said he does not miss playing tennis professionally. Speaking to reporters after receiving the Sporting Icon award at the Laureus World Sports Awards 2025 in Madrid, Nadal revealed he was at peace with his decision to step away from the sport.

“The truth is that I don’t miss tennis. Zero. I don’t miss it at all,” Nadal told reporters.

The 22-time Grand Slam champion attended the awards ceremony at Madrid’s Galería De Cristal on April 21, where he was recognized for his exceptional contribution to sports.

‘I Finished Happy,’ Says Nadal

Nadal clarified that his departure from tennis wasn’t driven by frustration or burnout. Instead, he concluded his career satisfied, knowing his body had reached its limits. “But not because I finished tired of tennis or fighting against tennis, not at all. I finished my career happy, and if I could have, I would have carried on, because I loved what I was doing. It was my passion, and that’s been the case all my life.”

The Spanish icon acknowledged the physical challenges he faced in the latter stages of his career, which ultimately led to his decision to retire. “It’s just that when you realise that physically you can’t do it any more… you try to close that chapter. And I closed it.”

Nadal Took Time Before Final Decision

The tennis star shared that he didn’t rush into retirement. He delayed the decision to ensure he was confident and content with it. “I delayed making my final decision because I needed time to be sure it was the right one. What would have been hard was sitting on my sofa wondering if I should keep trying to play.”

Once Nadal recognized that his body wouldn’t recover to the level needed to compete and enjoy the sport, he chose to stop. “When I saw that my body wasn’t going to recover to the level I needed to continue enjoying myself on court, then I made the decision to stop.”“That’s why I don’t miss it. Because I finished with the peace of mind of knowing that I’d given it my all, and that my body couldn’t give any more.”

As he accepts the Sporting Icon award, Rafael Nadal leaves behind a remarkable legacy marked by humility, discipline, and an enduring love for tennis.

Rafael Nadal to Receive Special Honour at Roland Garros 2025

April 18, 2025, 2:14 pm

Rafael Nadal will be honoured at this year’s French Open in recognition of his remarkable legacy and achievements at Roland Garros, as per the Olympics.com.
The 38-year-old Spaniard is a 22-time Grand Slam champion, with a record 14 of those titles coming on the Paris clay. The ceremony will take place on the opening Sunday of the tournament, 25 May, on Court Philippe-Chatrier, following the day’s matches.

Nadal, a two-time Olympic champion (Beijing 2008 singles, Rio 2016 doubles), retired in November last year. His remarkable win-loss record at Roland Garros reads 112-4, and there are plans for him to take up an ambassadorial role at the Grand Slam.

French Tennis Federation president Gilles Moretton said of the tribute, as quoted by the Olympics.com, “It’s a love story. I think it’s important to talk about a love story because he has deep respect for the tournament, for clay, and we have the same respect for the player, for the ambassador he can become for Roland Garros and the federation.”

Tournament director Amelie Mauresmo added that details of the ceremony will remain a surprise.

“Rafa has, of course, marked the history of Roland Garros in many different ways, and his 14 titles will perhaps remain unequalled in a Grand Slam tournament. He will not be playing this year at Roland Garros, but he will be very present by our side for this 2025 edition. Rafa has an important bond with Roland Garros. We want it to be a surprise,” she said.

Nadal’s first title in Paris came in 2005 and his last in 2022. His final appearance at the French Open was in 2024, where he lost in the first round to Alexander Zverev.

Zverev became just the third man ever to beat Nadal at Roland Garros, joining Robin Soderling and Novak Djokovic (twice).

Nadal also played on the red dirt of Paris at last year’s Olympics, losing to eventual champion Djokovic in the second-round singles and bowing out of the doubles with Carlos Alcaraz at the quarter-final stage.

**This story has not been edited by The Daily Guardian staff and is published from a syndicated feed.

Rafael Nadal Bids Farewell To Tennis at 38

October 10, 2024, 5:07 pm

Rafael Nadal, the legendary 22-time Grand Slam winner, has announced his retirement from professional tennis, marking the end of a remarkable career. The 38-year-old revealed in a video message posted on social media on Thursday that his final tournament will be the Davis Cup Finals in November, where he will compete for Spain.

Tennis icon Rafael Nadal announces retirement from professional Tennis. pic.twitter.com/hs3u2aBe9i

— ANI (@ANI) October 10, 2024

“I am here to let you know I am retiring from professional tennis,” Nadal shared in Spanish during the announcement.

“The reality is that it has been some difficult years, the last two especially. I don’t think I have been able to play without limitations.”

Over the past few years, Nadal has faced a series of injuries that have significantly affected his time on the court. This season, he has participated in only seven tournaments, with a disappointing first-round exit at the French Open, a tournament he has dominated with a record 14 titles. His most recent match was at the Paris Olympics, where he was defeated by Novak Djokovic in straight sets during the second round.

“It is obviously a difficult decision, one that has taken me some time to make… I think it is an appropriate time to put an end to a career that has been long and much more successful than I could have ever imagined,” Nadal said.

Known for his physically demanding playing style, many questioned how long Nadal could sustain his career. However, he retires with an impressive 22 Grand Slam titles, second only to Novak Djokovic’s 24 in the all-time rankings.

Paris Olympics 2024: Nadal and Djokovic Gear Up for Potential Final Showdown

July 29, 2024, 3:38 pm

Novak Djokovic expressed his satisfaction with his performance, noting that he had “played his part” following his commanding round-one win against Matthew Ebden, where he conceded only one game. Rafael Nadal also triumphed, beating Marton Fucsovics 6-1, 4-6, 6-4 in a gripping three-set match, setting up an eagerly awaited clash with Djokovic in the second round of men’s singles at Roland Garros.

This match will mark the 60th encounter between the two tennis greats, with Djokovic leading their head-to-head record 30-29. Their previous match took place two years ago, where Nadal avenged his 2021 French Open loss in the 2022 quarterfinals in Paris. This upcoming meeting will be their second at the Olympics; Nadal won their first encounter in the semifinals of the 2008 Beijing Olympics and eventually claimed the gold medal, while Djokovic secured the bronze.

Although Roland Garros is regarded as Nadal’s stronghold, where he has won 14 of his 22 Grand Slam titles, he approaches this match with an 11-6 record in 2024. Nadal has dealt with a new injury earlier in the year and faced a scare at the start of the Games. His best performance this year was reaching the final at the ATP Bastad, following an early exit at the French Open in May after losing in straight sets to Alexander Zverev.

Djokovic, despite not winning a trophy in 2024, holds a 23-7 record, including a run to the Wimbledon final earlier this month, where he lost to defending champion Carlos Alcaraz.

There has been ongoing speculation about whether Nadal’s next appearance will be his last on tour. However, when asked about the potential of a “last dance” with Djokovic, Nadal dismissed these rumors, questioning who had declared it to be his final match.

Paris 2024: Satwiksairaj Rankireddy Meets Rafael Nadal At Athletes Village—Check Out The Pic

July 23, 2024, 12:17 pm

Satwiksairaj Rankireddy, one half of India’s top men’s doubles badminton team, enjoyed a memorable moment at the Paris Olympics Athletes Village. After settling in, he met tennis legend Rafael Nadal and shared a photo on Instagram with the caption: “With the best.”

The Paris Olympics will officially open on July 26 and conclude on August 11. The Indian team aims to exceed its previous record of seven medals from the Tokyo 2021 Games.

Satwik and his men’s doubles partner Chirag Shetty, known as ‘Sat-Chi’, are strong medal contenders. This year, they’ve won two Badminton World Federation Tour titles: the French Open in March 2024 and the Thailand Open in May 2024. The pair, formerly ranked number one and currently ranked third globally, also secured a bronze at the 2022 World Championships, gold at the Birmingham Commonwealth Games in 2022, and a historic gold at the Asian Games in Hangzhou last year.

Rafael Nadal to Play Doubles with Carlos Alcaraz in Paris 2024 Olympics for Spain

June 12, 2024, 8:22 pm

In an exciting development, the Spanish tennis federation has announced that Rafael Nadal and rising star Carlos Alcaraz will team up as men’s doubles partners for the Paris 2024 Olympics. This dream duo will add significant firepower to the men’s doubles category, bringing together their wealth of experience and success on clay courts.

The Paris 2024 Olympics are scheduled to take place from July 26 to August 11, and tennis matches will be played on clay courts, providing a familiar setting for both Nadal and Alcaraz.

Nadal, a 22-time Grand Slam champion, has expressed his eagerness to represent Spain at the Paris Olympics, especially considering it might be his final year on the ATP tour. Despite a surprising early exit from the French Open in May, Nadal sees the Olympic Games as a source of motivation to continue his illustrious career.

Looking ahead, Nadal remains focused on competing against the world’s best players, with the goal of returning to Paris for the 2024 Olympics. While he acknowledges the challenges ahead, Nadal’s determination and passion for the sport drive him forward.

Alcaraz, on the other hand, made history at the French Open 2024 by becoming the second-youngest clay-court major champion since 2000. His victory over Alexander Zverev in the final marked a significant milestone in his burgeoning career, further solidifying Spain’s dominance in tennis.

Nadal, who previously clinched Olympic Gold in men’s singles at Beijing 2008 and men’s doubles Gold with Marc Lopez at Rio 2016, will look to add to his impressive Olympic legacy alongside his promising young compatriot, Alcaraz.

“Don’t Know if It’s Going to Be Last Time…”: Tennis Great Rafael Nadal Refuses to Rule Out French Open Return

May 28, 2024, 12:48 am

Tennis legend Rafael Nadal dismissed speculation about retiring after the French Open 2024, expressing uncertainty about whether it would mark his final tournament appearance. Despite his valiant effort, Nadal faced a tough defeat against Alexander Zverev in the opening round, succumbing to Zverev’s aggressive play.

The 14-time French Open champion experienced his first-ever first-round loss at Roland Garros, a significant moment in his illustrious career. Nadal also mentioned the upcoming Paris Olympics as a source of motivation to continue playing tennis after his defeat to Zverev.

Following the match, Nadal received a heartfelt send-off from the fans, who passionately chanted his name. Addressing the crowd, Nadal expressed gratitude for their unwavering support and reflected on his uncertain future at Roland Garros.

While acknowledging the possibility that he might not return to the French Open, Nadal emphasized his enjoyment of playing there and his improved physical condition, leaving the door open for a potential comeback. He also expressed hope of competing at the 2024 Olympics, indicating his determination to continue pursuing his tennis career.

Despite the intense battle against Zverev, where Nadal showcased moments of his signature brilliance, the German’s formidable serve and forehand proved too formidable. The match garnered significant attention, with top players like Iga Swiatek, Carlos Alcaraz, and Novak Djokovic observing from the stands due to its anticipated excitement.

Although Nadal fought fiercely, Zverev’s resilience and ability to respond to Nadal’s challenges ultimately secured him the victory in straight sets. Despite the outcome, Nadal’s legacy and his enduring competitiveness continue to captivate fans and inspire admiration in the tennis world.

French Open: Tennis Legend Rafael Nadal All Smiles as He Gets Rousing Welcome at Main Court, Begins Training

May 21, 2024, 12:02 am

Rafael Nadal, the 14-time French Open champion, arrived in Paris on Monday to prepare for the upcoming tournament. Fans at the iconic Philippe Chatrier court at Roland-Garros warmly welcomed the 22-time Grand Slam champion as he stepped onto the clay court for practice.

Roland Garros’s official handle posted a video of Nadal’s arrival, sparking anticipation for his participation in this year’s French Open. Nadal, in high spirits, interacted warmly with event staff and received loud cheers as he sported a white T-shirt and black trousers.

During an intense training session on the centre court, Nadal was captured slamming balls with full force, signaling his determination to be prepared for the clay-court Grand Slam. Notably, Nadal last won the French Open title in 2022, missing the 2023 edition.

Despite a recent setback at the Italian Open, where he lost in straight sets against Hubert Hurkacz in the second round, Nadal remains focused on his goal of clinching a record-extending 15th French Open title later this month. Addressing his fitness concerns, Nadal emphasized the importance of making the right decision regarding his participation in the tournament.

With the French Open set to commence on May 26 in Paris, Nadal faces a crucial decision regarding his readiness for the tournament, balancing his current physical condition with his determination to compete at the highest level.

Rafael Nadal Bids Emotional Farewell to Madrid Fans

May 1, 2024, 7:21 pm

At the Manolo Santana stadium during the Madrid Open, Rafael Nadal bid an emotional farewell to fans, marking the end of an era at an event he dominated with five ATP Masters 1000 titles.

Reflecting on the significance of playing in front of Spanish supporters, Nadal expressed gratitude amidst the emotional atmosphere, stating, “The memories of playing in front of Spanish fans in Madrid will stay with me forever.” Despite his fourth-round loss, the presentation of commemorative banners and a special trophy from tournament director Feliciano Lopez amplified the poignant moment.

Nadal found solace in the heartfelt applause of his fans and the tears shed by family members in his players’ box, emphasizing, “The only thing I can say is ‘thank you’.” His farewell marked a poignant reflection on his journey, as he acknowledged, “A few weeks ago, two days before Barcelona, I didn’t know if I would compete in an official match again.”

Looking back on his illustrious career, Nadal expressed gratitude for the unwavering support throughout the years, noting, “You have given me a gift for the last 21 years that’s more significant than any Grand Slam I have won.”

Despite the nostalgia of bidding adieu to Madrid, Nadal’s attention now turns to upcoming challenges, including the Olympics and Roland Garros. As he embarks on this new chapter, Nadal remains grateful for the indelible memories and unwavering support that have defined his remarkable career.

RAFAEL NADAL OUTCLASSES JACK DRAPER TO BEGIN TITLE DEFENCE

January 17, 2023, 1:17 pm

Top-seed Rafael Nadal won another nail-biting match at the Rod Laver Arena in Melbourne on Monday to begin his Australian Open title defence by defeating British rising star Jack Draper. The Spaniard delivered in the crucial moments to secure a 7-5, 2-6, 6-4, 6-1 victory against 21-year-old debutante Jack Draper to reach the second round for the 17th time.

In a match with only left-handed players, Nadal won sets one and three with crucial, late breaks to make up for Draper’s nearly 6-0 second-set lead. The Briton faced up against Nadal and outplayed him for periods of time before succumbing to the Spaniard’s constant pressure. Draper started to experience cramps and needed treatment during multiple changeovers as the Spaniard regained control of the match in the third set, locating his forehand from all parts of the court.

Early in the fourth set, both men played some of their finest tennis, with Draper collecting his fourth break to take the lead. But as Draper’s health difficulties grew worse, Nadal won the final six games. The inaugural ATP Head2Head encounter between the two players was briefly stopped early on by rain, and the play on the court seemed to reflect the match’s stopstart nature as each player took turns controlling from the baseline.

Draper quickly built a 4-0 lead in the second set thanks to his powerful forehand after barely losing the first set. As Draper rallied from a set down to tie the third set, the outcome of the match was in doubt; however, Nadal did just enough to hold his opponent at bay and end any chance of an upset; the fourth set was never in doubt. Playing for a recordextending 23rd Grand Slam singles title, Nadal is seeking his third Australian Open crown (2009, 2022). He will lock horns with Mackenzie McDonald in the second round after the American’s 7-6(5), 7-6(1), 1-6, 6-7(10), 6-4 win against countryman Brandon Nakashima on Monday

Need to build again this confidence in myself: Nadal

January 16, 2023, 2:18 pm

The 22-time Grand Slam champion Rafael Nadal has admitted that he is feeling vulnerable ahead of his first-round match in Australian Open and said that he needs to build confidence in himself. The defending champion had lost six of his last seven matches since the US Open, which is the worst run of his career entering the Grand Slam.

“Without a doubt. I have been losing more than usual, so that’s part of the business,” Atp. com quoted Rafael Nadal as saying. “I think I am humble enough to accept that situation and just work with what I have today. I need to build again all this momentum. I need to build again this confidence with myself with victories,” he further added. A first-round matchup against 21-year-old Great Britain’s Jack Draper who is just beginning his first full year on the ATP Tour would typically make Nadal the overwhelming favourite, but the fact that Draper is regarded as a difficult draw for the Spaniard, who is seeded first with Carlos Alcaraz out injured, is a testament to Draper’s development. Nadal offered no justification for his recent slump.

The lowest-ranked player he lost to was then-World No. 31 Tommy Paul in the Rolex Paris Masters, but two of those defeats came at the Nitto ATP Finals. “The real thing is I have been losing more than usual. Yeah, that’s the truth. I need to live with it and just fight for the victories. By the way, I didn’t play that bad the first two matches the year. I lost against two great opponents, but having very positive chances to win both matches. I already have been here for three weeks, practising every day with that conditions, with the best players. That helps a lot in general terms,” Nadal said.

Following his ‘friend and greatest rival’, Nadal withdraws from Laver Cup 2022.

September 24, 2022, 5:53 pm

Today was the final match of Roger Federer’s career and the Swiss tennis legend withdrew his name from the Laver Cup 2022 tournament. Moments later his friend and greatest rival Rafael Nadal followed him and withdrew from the event.

Nadal arrived in London, a day before his match alongside Federer. He straight up went to meet his teammates before going for the gala dinner. He could barely practice due to a shortage of time. The pair lost the final match of Federer’s glorious career to the Team World combination of Jack Sock and Frances Tiafoe.

Moments after the match, Nadal withdrew from the singles tie. He is replaced by Cameron Norrie in the lineup against Team World’s highest-ranked player Taylor Fritz.
The Laver Cup confirmed on Saturday morning: “Matteo Berrettini will be stepping in for Roger Federer: ‘I cannot wait to start.’ Additionally, Rafael Nadal withdrew for personal reasons. He will be replaced by Cameron Norrie.”

“I am not doing well. It’s been a tough time for me, I hardly slept, I was stressed. Luckily everything is okay and I was able to get here,” said Nadal in the post-match presser explaining the reason behind his withdrawal.

Emotional end to the glorious career of tennis star Roger Federer

September 24, 2022, 3:52 pm

The star tennis player, 20 times Grand slam champion, Roger Federer bid goodbye to his glorious tennis journey. Federer played his last match alongside long-time rival Rafael Nadal after announcing his retirement at the age of 41.

He described his tennis career as the ‘perfect journey’, despite losing the last match of his career and not getting a fairy tale ending. His final match was against Team World’s Frances Tiafoe and JACK Sock at a super crowded London’s O2 arena.
Federer was back on the court long after his knee injury in the 2021 Wimbledon Quarter Finals. He and Nadal won the first set but the opponents won in the end.
Federer and Nadal have been rivals for a very long time. But they were playing as a team in Federer’s last match.

“I’m happy, I’m not sad. It feels great to be here and I enjoyed tying my shoes one more time. Everything was the last time. The match was great, I couldn’t be happier. It’s been wonderful,” concluded Federer after the match.

After the match, Federer was overcome with emotions as he hugged his teammate Nadal and waved to the crowd. He broke into tears while addressing the arena.“Playing with Rafa on the same team and having the guys everybody here, all the legends ….thankyou,” said Federer. His parents, wife and four children joined him on the court.

NADAL, DJOKOVIC TO HEADLINE 2021 ATP CUP

January 6, 2021, 4:48 am

SYDNEY: Top ranked tennis players Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal will lead the field for the upcoming 2021 ATP Cup scheduled to be played at the Melbourne Park from February 1 to 5.

Djokovic’s Serbia and Nadal’s Spain will compete against Austria, Russia, Greece, Germany, Argentina, Italy, Japan, France, Canada and Australia in the 12-team competition, as per an ATP media release.

Qualification for the tournament is based on the ATP ranking of each country’s top-ranked single player, while Australia qualifies by virtue of a host wildcard.

“Last year we launched the global tennis season with the inaugural ATP Cup. It was a huge success with both players and fans, and we are excited to present the second edition in Melbourne in 2021,” said ATP Cup Tournament Director Tom Larner.

“The players are looking forward to stepping up and representing their countries again, and the field, including defending champions Serbia and finalists Spain, is strong. This is a format that shows off the passion of the players and we’re expecting some spectacular tennis action,” he added.

The 2021 ATP Cup will feature 14 of the top 15 players in the ATP rankings. Each team will consist of four players per country.

Reigning Nitto ATP Finals champion Daniil Medvedev headlines Russia’s team alongside fellow top 10 star Andrey Rublev, and world number three Dominic Thiem will try to take Austria to glory. Rising star Alex de Minaur will once again lead the way for Australia.