Rafael Nadal enjoyed a dream return to tennis following a year on the sidelines and a hip operation as he defeated old foe Dominic Thiem 7-5 6-1 in Brisbane. The Spaniard looked as competitive as ever in what was his first match in 12 months after picking up a season-ending injury at last year’s Australian Open.
Nadal and Thiem reignited their rivalry on Tuesday, enjoying a rousing reception at the Pat Rafter Arena for a throwback contest. What was once a match-up in the French Open finals, both men now met as unseeded players in the first round of an ATP 250 event, Nadal a wildcard and Thiem a qualifier.
The Spaniard had already played and lost a doubles match with his coach Marc Lopez on Sunday. There were still plenty of question marks around his form coming into his first singles match since last January. And Nadal quickly showed that he was able to be as competitive as ever, starting the clash with a trademark forehand winner.
The former world No 1 dropped just three points on his serve during the 56-minute opening set and looked to pounce at a crucial moment. With Thiem serving to stay in it, Nadal created the first break point chances of the match – also set points.
