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The 20-time major champion is on track to make his 2022 season debut as scheduled at an ATP 250 event in Melbourne next week.

ByKamakshi Tandon

Published Dec 30, 2021

Shot of the Day: Rafael Nadal

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FLASHBACK: Nadal strikes hot shot at Abu Dhabi exhibition

Rafael Nadal should arrive in Australia almost as scheduled despite recently contracting COVID-19.

The 35-year-old tested positive when he returned to Spain following an exhibition event in Abu Dhabi 10 days ago, but has now completed the required isolation period and will have just a day's delay in leaving for Australia.

According to Australian press, Nadal is confirmed to be headed Down Under and is aiming to make his 2022 season debut as planned at an ATP 250 event in Melbourne next week.

There will be some questions about his fitness as he takes the court.

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Nadal's 2021 campaign ended with a 24-5 record and a pair of trophies.

Nadal's 2021 campaign ended with a 24-5 record and a pair of trophies.

© AFP via Getty Images

The Abu Dhabi exhibition was Nadal's first on-court appearance since the Citi Open in Washington, D.C., and he indicated he was experiencing mild symptoms of the virus during isolation.

"I am having some unpleasant moments but I hope that I will improve little by little," Nadal had said as he announced his positive test.

Nadal could potentially break the Grand Slam record with a title run at the Australian Open, as could nine-time champion Novak Djokovic if he plays the event. Djokovic's appearance is still in question because he has not verified whether he is vaccinated against coronavirus, a requirement to play the Melbourne major unless a player is granted a medical exemption. Both are tied with Roger Federer for 20 Grand Slam titles.