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Tim Henman underlines Rafael Nadal is not returning to be a quarterfinalist or a semifinalist but adds it would be amazing to see the Spaniard win any tournament in his comeback. After not playing since this year's Australian Open and undergoing surgery on his hip in early June, Nadal's comeback starts at the Brisbane International. Ahead of his long-awaited comeback, Nadal has been adamant that he doesn't have high expectations but just wants to be competitive and stay healthy.
Addressing Nadal's Grand Slam chances in his return, Henman thinks a lot will be clearer once the Spaniard hits the court and plays a few matches. Also, Henman believes the clay season will likely be Nadal's best shot at potentially lifting some titles.
Henman on Nadal's chances in his return
“However, if he can stay injury free and play tournaments at the beginning of the year, to a certain extent, I feel like his comeback really starts once he gets on the clay courts and we will have had an opportunity to see where he's at, how is his fitness, how is his movement, how is his body, how does he recover after matches? I think then when we get to [see him] play, then we can say if there is a chance of Rafa adding to his Grand Slam tally. It'd be amazing if he won any tournament on the tour because it's not easy to do. But again, Rafa's not there to come back and make quarters and semis in a couple of events. He wants to win the biggest titles. And so, I think the early part of next year will tell us a lot as to whether Rafa is going to be a contender," Henman told Eurosport.
While Nadal was sidelined for 12 months, his competition only got stronger. Nadal has a history of making strong comebacks but there is no doubt that this will be one of the most challenging comebacks he has had ever had.