Spain’s Rafael Nadal is one of the true representers of the game. Over these years, the likes of Nadal, Federer, and Djokovic have proved themselves to be the greatest players of this era. Whenever there’s an event, be it small or huge, the stakes are always high when these names emerge. 

In the year 2020, the tennis calendar was shuffled on more than one occasion. The fact that the French Open was conducted after the US Open itself felt strange. All these adjustments were done due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Of course, the reasoning behind all these changes in the calendar was to ensure the tournaments would run through smoothly. To maintain safety amongst every individual being a part of that particular event was a priority. 

Rafael Nadal will be seen on the courts of Melbourne Park in 2021

These worries still continue as we look forward to the events for 2021. Speaking of the first major of the year, the Australian Open has finally fixed a date (February 8, 2021) to begin with. The first big name to confirm their participation for the major is Rafael Nadal. This news comes as a huge boost to tournament organizers, since players have been quite skeptical with regard to the safety measures.

After much discussion, it has been decided that the qualifying rounds of the Australian Open will be held in Dubai. It makes sense to hold the initial matches there, since the city has already hosted a few sporting events recently. Thereafter, players qualifying would then board the flight to Melbourne. They would have to serve a minimum period of 14 days and quarantine themselves. 

Also Read: “I’m Still Not at 100%” – Roger Federer Raises Uncertainties Over Australian Open 2021 Comeback

Players would be living in the bubble. The entire property where the players and their teams would be living will involve only the people related to the event. 

Coming back to the Spaniard and the Australian Open, Nadal fell short to Dominic Thiem this season. It’ll be great to see Rafa present at Melbourne Park next year.