In celebration of the Brisbane International’s much-anticipated return this summer, Rafael Nadal graced a special event in the city on Friday.

The 22-time Grand Slam champion took center stage at Queen Street Mall, giving fans an up-close and personal experience before his opening-round match.

Joined by Tournament Director Cameron Pearson, Rafa engaged in a lively Q&A session and generously signed tennis balls for fortunate fans.

“It’s impossible to think about winning tournaments today,” Rafa said when told Australian world No 40 Alexei Popyrin had tipped him to win in Brisbane. “What’s really possible is to enjoy the comeback. I don’t expect much; one year without being on the court.”

Rafa has said 2024 is “probably going to be my last year on the professional tour”. But he said he was encouraged by his fitness, confessing he feels “much better than what I expected a month ago”.

“I can’t have super long-term goals because I don’t see myself playing a super long time,” he said. “I don’t know how things are going to keep going. I’m not a player who tries to predict what can happen in the short term, and it’s even tougher in the medium period of time. I need to accept the adversity and that it’s not going to be perfect, just come with the right spirit every day.”

What a delightful treat for Rafans in Brisbane!

Source: Australian Associated Press