Rafael Nadal will be aiming to win a second Australian Open title (Image credit: Getty)
Rafael Nadal is one of the favourites to win the Australian Open but the Grand Slam will not see Kim Clijsters in action.
The 36-year-old Belgian is making a comeback to the world of Tennis after seven years. She was expected to play in the Australian Open but is now targeting a return in March.
Clijsters won four Grand Slam singles titles during her best days and had a great rivalry with fellow Belgian Justine Henin.
Coming back to the game after this long will be difficult for the Belgian and Nadal was asked if Clijsters would be a threat for the Grand Slams.
The 33-year-old Nadal knows a thing or two about coming back from a long break. He struggled with injuries a few years ago but is possibly in the best shape of his life.
The Spaniard couldn’t provide a real answer if Clijsters would be successful or not but he wished her all the best:
“I can’t give you a real answer. I love Kim in terms of her character, she is one of the nicest girls on tour and I always admired Kim a lot.
“I wish her all the best. If its possible or not, if she wants to be back because she feels strong right, so let’s see.”
The Spaniard missed out on the Australian Open last year but reached the final.
More Tennis news
“It’s not forever” – Rafael Nadal knows Tennis career isn’t forever and is planning for future
Australian Open Champion Naomi Osaka says she was more “fearless” last year ahead of title defence
“It’s been on my mind a lot” – Naomi Osaka contemplating on how to help Australian bushfire victims
Novak Djokovic got the better of him in the previous Australian Open, and Nadal starts his campaign with a clash against Hugo Dellien in the first round.
Follow our dedicated Tennis page for instant Tennis news and updates
