World’s number one tennis player, Novak Djokovic, is confirmed to kick off his 2024 season at the mixed teams United Cup in Australia, while the injury-plagued Rafael Nadal has not been included in the Spain team lineup, according to the announcement made on Friday. Djokovic is set to lead Serbia at the tournament from December 29 to January 7 in Sydney and Perth as part of his preparations for defending his Australian Open title.
In contrast, Nadal, part of the Spain team in 2023, suffered a hip injury during the year’s first Grand Slam tournament and has been sidelined since. He underwent surgery in June. Tennis Australia’s chief, Craig Tiley, revealed earlier this month that Nadal intended to make his return to Grand Slam tennis at the Australian Open, which follows the United Cup. Nadal responded to Tiley’s statement on social media by expressing gratitude for the confidence shown in him but did not confirm his participation. In addition to the United Cup, there are ATP events scheduled in Brisbane, Adelaide, and Auckland in early January, providing opportunities for wagering on these events through established platforms such as ggbet.one/en. Nadal could potentially use it to prepare for the Australian Open.
The United Cup boasts participation from nine of the world’s top 20 men and five of the top 10 women. The defending champions, the United States, are considered one of the favorites, with Jessica Pegula and Taylor Fritz leading their team. Poland, led by world number two and four-time Grand Slam winner Iga Swiatek, has been designated the top seeds for the 18-nation event.
Other notable players, such as Stefanos Tsitsipas, Casper Ruud, Alexander Zverev, Maria Sakkari, and Caroline Garcia, have also confirmed their participation in this event.
The tournament director, Stephen Farrow, emphasized that the format is designed to showcase both the men’s and women’s games, emphasizing the unique equality in tennis. Countries will be drawn into six groups of three and compete in a round-robin format, with each tie featuring one men’s and women’s match and a mixed doubles clash.
Rafael Nadal Set To Make Grand Slam Comeback At 2024 Australian Open: CEO Craig Tiley
According to tournament director Craig Tiley, Rafael Nadal is set to return to Grand Slam at the Australian Open in January. This appearance is expected to mark Nadal’s farewell to Melbourne.
The 22-time major champion has been absent from competitive play since his second-round loss to American Mackenzie McDonald at the Australian Open earlier this year due to a hip injury. During his lengthy rehabilitation, the 37-year-old has undergone two surgeries. Nadal recently stated his intention to conclude his career in 2024.
Tiley mentioned, “Our 2022 champion, Rafa Nadal, has diligently worked on his rehabilitation throughout the year. He always gives his best in Melbourne, and his competitive spirit is unquestionable. I’ve contacted his team, and he is now back on the court, eagerly anticipating his return to Melbourne in January.”
Organizers eagerly anticipate Nadal’s return, as it could challenge Novak Djokovic’s dominance, with Djokovic being the reigning champion and a 10-time winner in Melbourne.
Additionally, local favorite Nick Kyrgios, who underwent knee surgery this year, is another potential contender to watch in the tournament.
