Channel nine

Rafael Nadal:  Next year's Australian Open is set to bring immense joy to Rafael Nadal's fans as the Spaniard is scheduled to make an eagerly awaited comeback after a long injury layoff, as announced by tournament director Craig Tiley on Wednesday.

Speaking to Channel Nine’s Today, Tiley revealed the 22-time Grand Slam champion is preparing to compete in the year’s first Grand Slam tournament as he gears up for what appears to be his farewell 2024 season.

"We can reveal exclusively here that Rafa will be back. He's been off for most of the year, and in talking to him over the last few days, he confirmed he will be back, which we're really excited about. That's awesome," Tiley said.