Former world's no.1 and 14-time Grand Slam champ Rafael Nadal will reportedly make his return from a wrist injury on September 25, as he will play Frenchman Jo-Wilfried Tsonga in an exhibition match in Astana, Kazakhstan.
"According to the Kazakhstan Tennis Federation, Rafael Nadal will play Jo-Wilfried Tsonga two Thursdays from tomorrow in an exhibition match on September 25 in Astana," as reported by Tennis X.
Nadal, who failed to defend his championship at the US Open championship after suffering torn ligaments in his right wrist at the height of his preparation for the North American hard-court season, is attempting to make a comeback in time for the Asian circuit of the ATP World Tour.
The news of Nadal's possible return to action came following report of Sports Illustrated tennis writer John Wertheim that the Spaniard might skip the remainder of the ATP season.
The 28-year old Nadal already lost a total of 4,000 points in ATP World ranking points, and just few points ahead of main rival and world's no.3 Roger Federer in the ladder.
"Maybe they were simply putting on a brave face, but ATP officials were expressing confidence that Nadal would be back from a wrist injury for the Asian swing and the World Tour Finals. I've also been told by sources not to be surprised if he shuts it down for the rest of the season," Wertheim stressed.
However, Nadal seems not ready yet in giving up the fight for the top spot, as a possible stint in Kazakhstan would be a big thing for Asian Tour organizers, who are expecting the presence of the Spaniard.
"This visit is an invaluable opportunity for our young tennis players and the younger generation of tennis professionals to see the living legends, get inspiration, and to learn from these legendary masters," Mr. Utemuratov, the president of Kazakhstan Tennis Association.
Is it smart move for Rafa?
While it's a great development to see Nadal competing again at a high level, there's a risk if he still plays hurt. The Kazakhstan invitational will give fans a first glimpse of the Spaniard's condition post-injury.
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