Rafael Nadal of Team Spain plays Alex de Minaur of Team Australia on Ken Rosewall Arena during their Group D match on Day 5 of the 2023 United Cup in Sydney on Monday, January 2, 2023. MANDATORY PHOTO CREDIT Tennis Australia/ James Gourley
Rafael Nadal will make a nostalgic return to Dubai after a 15-year absence, officials confirmed on Monday.
The world No. 2 Spaniard, currently preparing to defend his Australian Open title starting in a week in Melbourne, will be making his fifth tournament appearance in the emirate.
Nadal won the trophy in 2006 as he beat hot rival Roger Federer and returned for the next two editions only to lose in the quarter-finals each time.
The 36-year-old is the first major entry announced by the event which hosts a WTA tournament a week before the February 27 men’s start.
During his last appearance in Dubai, he held only three Grand Slam titles compared to his current historic record of 22.
Main photo: Rafael Nadal of Team Spain 2023 United Cup in Sydney on Monday, January 2, 2023 – Tennis Australia/ James Gourley
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