Nadal triumphs Thiem Brisbane singles comeback

Rafa Nadal returns to tennis with a win against Dominic Thiem after a year-long injury break. Gauff, Azarenka also win.

Spanish tennis star Rafael Nadal made a triumphant return to singles competition after nearly a year away due to injury, defeating former world number three Dominic Thiem in the first round of the Brisbane International tournament. Nadal, a 22-time Grand Slam champion, had been sidelined since undergoing arthroscopic surgery on his left hip flexor in June of the previous year. The injury occurred during the Australian Open in early 2023, where he was defeated in the second round.

Nadal, who returned to competitive tennis just days before the Brisbane International, expressed his emotions and gratitude for the support he has received throughout his recovery. He credited his team and family for their unwavering support during what he described as one of the toughest years of his tennis career. The 37-year-old was visibly moved by the warm reception he received from the crowd, stating that he missed the feeling of being healthy and competitive and playing in front of enthusiastic fans.

In his match against Thiem, Nadal displayed the form that has made him a tennis legend, claiming the victory with a combination of skill and determination. He expressed excitement and relief at being back on the court, acknowledging the nerves and doubts he had prior to the match. Despite these challenges, he was able to focus and deliver a strong performance, securing his 1,069th tour-level victory and surpassing Ivan Lendl to sit fourth in the all-time list.

In the women's draw, Arina Rodionova defeated 2020 Australian Open winner Sofia Kenin, while double Melbourne Park champion Victoria Azarenka emerged victorious against Anna Kalinskaya. US Open holder Coco Gauff, defending her title at the Auckland Classic, began her new season with a win over fellow American Claire Liu. Gauff, who is aiming to improve on her fourth-round finish at the previous year's Melbourne Park, is set to face world number 117 Brenda Fruhvirtova in her next match.

Second seed Elina Svitolina secured a straightforward victory over Caroline Wozniacki, and 2021 US Open champion Emma Raducanu returned to the court following wrist and ankle surgeries to claim a hard-fought win over Elena-Gabriela Ruse. The tournament continues to showcase the talent and resilience of the world's top tennis players as they prepare for the upcoming major events.