Rafael Nadal was drawn to face Flavio Cobolli at the Barcelona Open in what would be the Spaniard’s first clay-court appearance this year in the buildup to the French Open.
The 22-time Grand Slam champion had hip surgery last summer and this year has played only three competitive matches — in Brisbane before skipping the Australian Open.
The 37-year-old Nadal pulled out of the Monte Carlo Masters before it started because of a lingering injury, saying “ my body simply won’t allow me.”
Nadal, a 12-time champion in Barcelona, has not confirmed he will play but he spoke at the draw ceremony ahead of the first round next week. He said, “I’m happy to be here,” but didn’t commit to playing.
In early March, Nadal played an exhibition match against Carlos Alcaraz in Las Vegas but days later pulled out of the Indian Wells tournament.
The French Open, which Nadal has won a record 14 times, begins May 25.
AP tennis: https://apnews.com/hub/tennis
Young Boys seals 6th Swiss soccer league title in 7 years after rallying from firing coach Wicky
Tom Holland confirms he is definitely returning for a fourth Spider
Trial opens for former Virginia hospital medical director accused of sexual abuse of ex
Columbia switches to hybrid learning amid protests over Israel's war in Gaza
Pope trip to Luxembourg, Belgium confirmed for September, 2 weeks after challenging Asia visit
Ukraine, Israel aid package heads to Senate for final approval
Global plastic treaty: Negotiations hit critical stage in Canada
Spice Girls Mel B and Geri Horner 'had a frosty reunion at Victoria Beckham's 50th birthday'
Trump accepts a VP debate but wants it on Fox News. Harris has already said yes to CBS
Aboriginal spears taken by Captain Cook in 1770 are returned to Australia's Indigenous people
'Constantly learning' Imanaga off to impressive start with the Chicago Cubs
Why Meghan's podcast has hit a snag before it even begins: Duchess's much