It is time for the fans to shift their attention toward the next European clay court destination. As the Monte-Carlo Masters is about to meet an end with the top four players battling for a spot in the finals, the Barcelona Open conducted its draw ceremony. Along with all the other aspects that ignite the eagerness of fans, Rafael Nadal‘s participation in the event makes it even more special.

As reports from the Barcelona Open draw ceremony started to come in, the fans spotted a completely unexpected glimpse of 10-time winner Rafael Nadal having a special seat. The Spaniard, who recently withdrew from the Monte-Carlo Masters as he was unable to get his serve right because of a back injury, is highly expected to be back on the courts this time.

Although the Spaniard is looking forward to walking into the ground that he ruled during his peak years, his run for the title is set to be very challenging, with tough hurdles like Carlos Alcaraz standing in his way. Looking at the recently released draws, the Spaniard, if he finalizes his decision to play in the tournament, will be facing the Italian tennis star Flavio Cobolli in his inaugural match.

Followed by that, current World No. 11 Alex De Minaur stands to his second-round opponent, raising the bars of competitive levels for the ‘King of Clay’. Moving ahead to the next round if Nadal has recovered enough to win these two competitions, either Alexei Popyrin or Arthur Fils will be waiting for him as another challenge.

The competition gets real in the quarter-finals and semi-finals where competitors like Monte-Carlo quarter-finalist Ugo Humbert and either semi-finalist Stefanos Tsitsipas or the defending champion Carlos Alcaraz will be waiting to raise the bars of challenge.

While there’s still no confirmation from Rafael Nadal’s end about his participation in Barcelona, recent reports suggest that he is making evident efforts to prepare himself for the tournament.

Rafael Nadal giving it all to be ready for Barcelona

Looking at his hard training sessions with World No. 6 and 2023’s Monte Carlo winner Andrey Rublev, the Spaniard set new standards of expectations by taking a set from him. “Rafa Nadal has just nailed Rublev, world number 6 and still current Monte Carlo champion, 6-1. Very good sensations from Rafa in training. 👀At one point during the set, he told his coach Carlos Moyá: “HOW AM I SERVING!” Optimism for Tuesday🤔”

While his back injury has been a major concern for the fans as it became the reason behind his Monte-Carlo withdrawal, his recent form makes it clear: that he wants to defy the limitation, and reclaim his place on the court. As the tournament is just days away from unleashing the action, it still remains to be seen if the legendary player graces the courts with his presence.

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