Tennis legend Rafael Nadal's recent comeback has fans buzzing, but a lingering question remains: is the pain gone? Nadal, a 22-time Grand Slam champion, retired in 2024 after Spain's Davis Cup loss to the Netherlands. But his retirement didn't last long. Recently, he returned to the court to help two rising stars from his academy, Alexandra Eala and Alina Korneeva.
In an interview with 'El Larguero', Nadal revealed he's still in pain when playing tennis. He said, 'I'm in pain, but taking breaks helps.' This admission sparks curiosity about his physical condition and the potential challenges of returning to professional tennis.
Nadal's comeback has been fueled by his desire to face former rival Roger Federer in exhibition matches. The idea has gained traction, and fans eagerly await the 'Fedal' tour. But will Nadal's body hold up? And how will he fare against the current generation of players?
Eala and Korneeva, Nadal's practice partners, are both promising talents. Eala, a Filipino star, reached the Miami Open semifinals this year, defeating multiple Grand Slam champions. She finished 2025 ranked 50th in the world. Korneeva, a Russian teenager, has won two Grand Slam junior titles but is yet to make her mark on the WTA Tour. She's currently ranked 216th.
As Nadal assists these young players, the tennis world wonders: will he return to competitive tennis? And if so, can he reclaim his former glory? The debate is open, and opinions are sure to vary. Who do you think is the greatest male tennis player of all time? Share your thoughts below!
