At this point, I think we can all agree that we don't care if Nadal doesn't win another title. We're just happy to see him back on the court again and doing what he loves the most.
Rafa shows once again how unique is what he's been doing during all these years: coming back from insane injuries and being able to play at such a high level. He is one of a kind.
He just plays tennis different.. what a joy to watch.. tennis will never be the same without him.. his grunts, forehands and backhands.. one in a generation player Nadal
Man as a djokovic fan there’s nothing I want more than to have the big three be in their primes and play again. Really miss those times, cherising nadal and djoko while they’re still active
He looked so good..ripping lethal forehands everywhere, passing shots at the feet. defensive slice up the line. Amazing feel and deft touch..he is back and the crowds LOVE him
From a Djokovic fan, Federer was beautiful to watch, and Djokovic is efficiency personified, but no one electrifies the court and heightens the energy of the arena like El Matador...the God of clay: Rafael Nadal. There's something about Rafas aura, dressing style, personality, eccentricities, body language, and playing style, which will always be memorable, endearing, and unforgettable for true tennis fans.
Well said. And as a Rafa fan I have to say that there's probably not been a player in history as complete and clinical as Djokovic, though perhaps Alcaraz and Sinner will be. Each new generation is forced to adapt to the challenges and learn from the outgoing generation ...
Not much of a rivalry anymore unfortunately. It’s pretty clear at this point that Thiem will never be as good as he was pre-injury. At this point he should just play for his love of the sport and forget about winning big titles
@@keeganandersson4281 he was never that good. He’s an asterisk champ whose reputation was only promoted through marketing, which NPCs fell for. An asterisk champ through and through, was busted for drugs in 2021 but they kept it quiet hence his “injury”.
I feel so bad for Thiem. He’s watching a guy who is 6-7 years older than him, coming off a hip injury that sidelined him for a year, playing his first singles match and beating Thiem in straights. You can see the pain in his eyes during the handshake, where Thiem is normally all smiles. Thiem has been trying to find his form for almost 2 years now after the wrist injury, but really hasn’t been able to play at much higher than a top 100 level. He also made two bad mistakes at 5-6 40-40 to lose the set (bad approach shot, then missed an easy attacking forehand the next point). I do really hope he can get back on track one day, maybe crack the top 10 once again or at least be competitive with the top guys. Great win by Nadal, though. He’s proving he still has something left in him. We need to see more of course, but I don’t think it’s unrealistic to say he can win a title playing at this level.
Thiems peak from like 2016 to 2020 was very high, would have loved to see that thiem take on Alcaraz but not looking like heel ever get back to it at this point
Man this was so emotional to watch honestly dream comeback by Rafa the level he displayed that too against a Grand Slam Champion makes this win so damn special AO 2024 gonna be Epic 🔥💯
Yep, i agreed... but roland garros, this is another story. Also, even djokovic gets older... There is no certitude about how long he's going to keep such a high level.
It’s emotional watching this! As the biggest Rafa fan I used to not be able to watch a match if I thought he would lose, this year with him back I’m going to watch every single one. What an inspiration he is to come back after a year out! ❤
This guy can sit a year off and come back in full swing. How impressive ! I mean sure, still a lot to uncover as the matches string one after the other, and I hope he'll have the sense of avoiding smaller tournaments from now on, he can keep his chances for Roland Garros if he's healthy enough.
@@andrewmiller3055 Agree, hard to say he was top notch, Thiem is not playing at a great level either. It's true Nadal did not pursue every ball, but that's smart. And I suppose he'll be able to reach the 8th round in AO if the draw is normal, but I won't bet about him getting any further (though he has a habit of outperforming the odds after a comeback).
Wow. That was shockingly good. I didn’t want to get my hopes too high for this comeback, but after that match I’m thinking he might actually have a rafa-like year. Wonderful to see
Watched the whole video with the smile, didn't care if he lost or won the point.The depth of his backhands was just great. Can't wait for the Aussie Open. Wish him a lot health!!
I can't help but smile. I am having a hard time at the moment, as everyone does. He is so inspiring, I can't help but thinking that one has to keep fighting. Like he does.
That backhand winner from the middle of the court off a high rally ball was one of the most impressive shots. He just took it and destroyed it out of nowhere! So happy to see him back like this!
Never going to happen on hard court, Rafa won't even make it to the second week, Federer even at 42 stands better chance on hard court vs Djokovic than Nadal.
Nadal knows Djokovic is still the favourite for AO24, no doubt, he'll probably fake another injury, to avoid a straight set loss in the final, ofc if Novak looses early, Nadal might stand 50% chance. @@mateuszoleksiak5089
Deep backhands, the usual topspin forehands, dito slice serves, the net game and the mental strength. It's all there. He could be back at full strength.
Ha vuelto el Rey del tenis🎉❤,que Dios conserve tu cuerpo sin lesiones,eres el Mejor,al menos para mi y ha sido emocionante volver a verte en una cancha de tenis y hacerlo tan bien, gracias 😊 Rey😘😘😘😘
La alegría y emoción de volver a Rafa 🎾 de vuelta a la competencia ..y el nivel de tenis mostrado ..está muy rápido y esos golpes💯💯💯 ...después de un año sin competir ......es EMOCIONANTE ...GRACIAS 🎾 TENIS...por volver a ver a RAFAEL NADAL ...el deportista que más he admirado en mi vida ....
Damn I've missed Rafa! So pleased to see him come back (again!) and playing his first match in almost a year (and against a tough opponent) at such an excellent level, and moving well. Fingers massively crossed that his greatest nemesis - his own body - allows him to continue competing at a high level for at least another year or two. Best of luck Rafa, vamos!
To make a come back after every injuries that he faced seems surreal for anyone.. The grit, determimation n passion for sport by rafa is unmatchable.. He is n will be the Greatest for me for sure...!
As a Serb, I am very happy that Nadal is back. With the younger generations, tennis is losing popularity, and Rafa brought me back to nostalgia and some beautiful tennis times. ❤️
Exactly! It's kinda sad that the young guys can't compete with a 36 yr Nole and that's crazy. So crazy that now people are counting on a 37 yr old Rafa coming off a big injury to be able to give Nole some good competition again. I mean if you notice...after Roger's retirement...Rafa and Nole were still winning almost all the slams. After Rafa, Nole was and is single handedly winning almost everything.
@@kryptonian1371What?? That’s really not true. Nole got beat two times by Rune and really struggled against Sinner, and Carlos is very close too. Think the competition is good enough for him to be honest
@@h.d.l. They cant at all, only alcaraz at his best might beat him. Djokovic was winning the slams last year without any sliding which means he was playing at 50%.
THE GOAT IS BACK. Wow !! After a 349 days break playing like that is just out of this world! What a powerful performance. The shot on 1:53 and 2:55 are the reason why Rafa is the Goat.
Indescriptible volver a verte jugar, qué ganas había rafa. No sé que haré cuando te retires porque lo que tu me haces sentir en una pista no lo hace nadie.
the key for Nadal in 2024 is to play without pressure, so he can play free and can perform at his best, so happy for Rafa, at the same time sad for Thiem
Without Rafa there wouldn't be this global interest in tennis right now. He brought the magic with his unique do or die persona and his strong will to win against all odds. A hipinjury is very difficult to come back from and to see him playing like this he must've worked so hard to get here and that is his magic that he delivers. There is no one like him and we may never see someone like him again. A Champ in every sense of the word. Rafa forever! Most fascinating sportsman ever!!!
Incredible. Nadal can still do Nadal things. 🎉🤩👑😍🥊. If he stays fit and can play at or near his level, then another slam is possible but just great to see him back, healthy and doing what he loves and does so well. VAMOSSS!!!!
If he continues to maintain his health and sustains the level at which he is currently hitting the ball, I genuinely believe he could once again be the favorite for Roland Garros.
Rafa and Djokovic are still so incredibly important for the sport. We should all cherish every moment we have left. You are watching the tail end of the golden era of tennis.
Great start Rafa Welcome back. Also sad to see Thiem struggling nowadays , he is completely different compared to his peak form, feel like he won"t comeback :(
I am surprised by the phenomenonal level displayed by Nadal after such a long lay off. Yet again he has proved to be the come back King and if he stays healthy, he can be very competitive at Australian open.
Yeah, until he meets Alcaraz, who will destroy him on hard court, not to mention Med/Djokovic, let's wait and see, if Nadal miraculously wins AO24, I'll believe I can walk on air!😆
@@pauljohnson6019 What I said was relative. That early rustiness wasn't visible and that is so characteristic of Nadal. For me, Nadal has zero chance to win Australian open, but he will have his chances as usual in the clay season.
Yes, I see it impossible of winning AO24, with DJOKOVIC there, unless there is someone who beats Novak, and plays terrible in the finals, which is a possibility, like Medvedev.@@juanv5375
Coming from Novak's die hard fan - I am so happy to see Rafa back, I hope that he can give us a couple of years more, the game of tennis needs him and Novak so much, young guys are good, but they can never be compared to these all time greats.
Nadal is back and he's back with his old form! I celebrate that! Impressive when you consider that he hasn't played an official match for almost a year. I hope he stays injury-free and can enjoy the coming year. Vamos Rafa!💪🏻
lolst it s magic cause you re just a casual fanboy and nothing more. alcaraz alone is far far more entertaining than nadal and close to federer in pure entertainment, and there are plenty other players that play explosive tennis.
@VladRadu-tq1pg Hi Vlad! You are entitled to your opinions and I'm glad that you like other good active tennis players. But, you don't know me and I don't think it's nice writing "you re just a casual fanboy and nothing more". It's the beginning of the year, let's spread some much needed love instead in this crazy world. Cheers ❤️
A piece of me just came back to life it feels like. Rafa back on court 😀 also hoping Thiem will find his form again, I'd love for him to be competitive again
nadal ,what an athlete,what a man ,what a personality,tennis world will always remember one name rafa ,he is the goat ,stats wouldve been double had he not been injured in numerous times ,rafa nadal is the goat of tennis ,the legend ,utmost respect for you rafa.
i' m a die hard Federer fan, even if he' s retired, but i ve always tought that Nadal would have come back strong ! He is a legend for a reason... when him and Djokovic will retire they will be another sad days for tennis, i hope that it will happen as late as possible.
As a Rafa fan, I have endured the entire 2023 without him. As much I like seeing him win, it is a moment of pure joy, seeing Nadal play without pain. Going to savour every moment of your return to the tour, my king! 🥹🥹
Verte de nuevo así... me hace tan feliz,mil gracias por haber hecho que me apasione desde el 2004 a un deporte tan bonito como el tennis don Rafael nadal parera♥️
Yeah, that's suspicious, do you think it was fixed, because the AO21 win against Medvedev seemed fixed to me, losing from 2-0 up, something very odd was up, with the crowd, and umpire not telling them to shut up.@@NortonHughes-v3r
Surely the outbreak of Alcaraz helped to pass through 2023, but not until today many of us Spaniards realized how much we missed watching Nadal, great to have his tennis, his spirit and his energy back on the court.
Novak fan here, and it is nice to see Rafa back on the court again. Looking good, looking sharp. Hope he stays healthy for a whole season. Thiem still struggling to get back on the top tier level. Will we ever see him back in top 10/15 again?
It’s impressive what Fed, Nadal, Djokovic, and Murray have been able to accomplish later in their careers competing against younger players, I love Thiem as well and I have been rooting for his comeback. Great classic match between two champions!
Just simply nice to watch these two wonderful tennis players, Rafa & Dominic are special professionals. Both put their best foot forward and competed well . A positive step for Nadal and Thiem after absent on tour due to injuries.Really hope both of them excel in 2024. A win for Rafa tonight is a big boost for his confidence and morale. For Thiem he will surely get to a better level shortly. Rafa on the court = happiness 😀😀😀. Dominic on the court = happiness 😀😀😀
For a Federer fan since 20 years, I could not believe how happy I would be to see Rafa on court once again. But here we are and this (possibly) last year I will follow him as a fan and his play today was very promising considering the long absence. However, I really like Thiem as well and hope that he can find a competitive level again. It’s not that bad but everything is just a little bit worse than when he was a contender at the highest level.
I dont even care if Rafa wins anything this year. Its just such a blessing to have him back on tour. For me its like seeing the last matches of Roger. Every match that i can witness his style and beauty of play makes me so happy. The rest history will tell, either way. He will be one of the legends of this sport, no matter the outcome of the rest of his career.
Get your Nadal Tennis TV merch right here: www.tennistv.store/
Yeah, show your support for the biggest cheater in the history of the gam
@joeburinskas8672 Now that's not very nice.
@@olivermccall9770 Sus lagrimas mojaron mi teclado. Exijo un pórtatil nuevo.
@@olivermccall9770 Accurate, though
@@joeburinskas8672 haha, salty, so of course you need to comfort yourself with lies. Rafa is the greatest golden legend ever graced the game!
At this point, I think we can all agree that we don't care if Nadal doesn't win another title. We're just happy to see him back on the court again and doing what he loves the most.
But he is going to win one
Thing is Nadal with his Champion mentality wants to Win titles.
Rafa said time and time again that he never enter a tournament if he did not believe he could win it.
@@bilalattal2707Ты забыл про жену!!! Она послала его бабки зарабатывать!!🤣🥎🤣
Sure! But i think he can go far in brisbane
Rafa shows once again how unique is what he's been doing during all these years: coming back from insane injuries and being able to play at such a high level. He is one of a kind.
He's the greatest to ever play the game!!
@@danhunter8638 no
@RepentandbelieveinJesusChrist- amen!!
Not bad for a player who isn't in the top 650 players, I think he has a bright future
if only he can hit more topspin
@@bilalattal2707Might be decent on clay, but idk
haha you're all so funny! 😊
novak gay fans are here. look at them they worried as much as novak i love it. goodnight bum thiem who next
Are you re tarded?@@joeymiddleton5821
He just plays tennis different.. what a joy to watch.. tennis will never be the same without him.. his grunts, forehands and backhands.. one in a generation player Nadal
Nadal’s return = tears of joy. God I miss that ridiculous whipping forehand, and the relentless fighting spirit. What a legend. Vamos!
I really want to see him against Alcaraz who is like a mini Nadal !
Man as a djokovic fan there’s nothing I want more than to have the big three be in their primes and play again. Really miss those times, cherising nadal and djoko while they’re still active
The power, the science of tennis, the precision, it's all there, it's good that he's back
8-7 40-15 tho
@@sleepyjoe3002what
He looked so good..ripping lethal forehands everywhere, passing shots at the feet. defensive slice up the line. Amazing feel and deft touch..he is back and the crowds LOVE him
Not many players have such a positive effect on the crowd. Nadal we missed you deerly.
That crowd looks like the one in the GrandSlam finals.
When this was only the beginning and his first game, when he is on 100% he can win RG or Olympia, i am sure! Wenn no injury stops him again!
The guy is a modern marvel and yes we missed you King Rafa....oh how weve missed you.
Deer ly
its highly unlikely, eve i wish it very much.@@thorstenkootz9558
From a Djokovic fan, Federer was beautiful to watch, and Djokovic is efficiency personified, but no one electrifies the court and heightens the energy of the arena like El Matador...the God of clay: Rafael Nadal.
There's something about Rafas aura, dressing style, personality, eccentricities, body language, and playing style, which will always be memorable, endearing, and unforgettable for true tennis fans.
On point
Well said. And as a Rafa fan I have to say that there's probably not been a player in history as complete and clinical as Djokovic, though perhaps Alcaraz and Sinner will be. Each new generation is forced to adapt to the challenges and learn from the outgoing generation ...
Matadors are a bunch of fags, and Nadal is boiled...!
A champion should understand when the time comes to hang up his racket...!
An absolute pleasure to watch Rafa's return to tennis. It certainly feels like the good old days to have Thiem and Nadal resume the rivalry
Тим это гавно, ублюдок у которого нету ни будущего ни чего
Not much of a rivalry anymore unfortunately. It’s pretty clear at this point that Thiem will never be as good as he was pre-injury. At this point he should just play for his love of the sport and forget about winning big titles
What “rivalry”? It’s even more lopsided than the Fedal “rivalry”.
@@keeganandersson4281 he was never that good. He’s an asterisk champ whose reputation was only promoted through marketing, which NPCs fell for. An asterisk champ through and through, was busted for drugs in 2021 but they kept it quiet hence his “injury”.
@@sleepyjoe3002Before this match, the H2H ratio was exactly the same with Nadal-Federer and Nadal-Thiem (1.5).
My God this man is superhuman, 1 year out of competittion and in his first match does this, just incredible, welcome back Nadal !!!
I feel so bad for Thiem. He’s watching a guy who is 6-7 years older than him, coming off a hip injury that sidelined him for a year, playing his first singles match and beating Thiem in straights. You can see the pain in his eyes during the handshake, where Thiem is normally all smiles. Thiem has been trying to find his form for almost 2 years now after the wrist injury, but really hasn’t been able to play at much higher than a top 100 level. He also made two bad mistakes at 5-6 40-40 to lose the set (bad approach shot, then missed an easy attacking forehand the next point).
I do really hope he can get back on track one day, maybe crack the top 10 once again or at least be competitive with the top guys. Great win by Nadal, though. He’s proving he still has something left in him. We need to see more of course, but I don’t think it’s unrealistic to say he can win a title playing at this level.
On clay yes- on hard court no, even Federer will still beat Nadal on hard court, be it exhibition or Grand Slam, what to speak of Djokovic.
I feel like playing those long quali matches toke a toll on him
he´s not Andy Murray @@Johnmili4565
@@pauljohnson6019tennis is not like this bro
Thiems peak from like 2016 to 2020 was very high, would have loved to see that thiem take on Alcaraz but not looking like heel ever get back to it at this point
Am i the only one who enjoys his backhand as much as the forehand, love the power he hits it with, probably one of the hardest two handers ever
he prolly has a top 5 backhand of all time
@@Gabriel-sh3msfinally someone else on the internet seeing it.
Nadal's backhand is a forehand and always has been. Nadal is right handed so that's his natural wing.
@@andrewmiller3055 And that's EXACTLY the reason why he is so incredibly versatile with it.
Yes and that is his only weekness if you pull him wide and go to the net.
Rafa: the most resilient tennis player of all time. Well done and great effort from Thiem too!
More than resilient, he is a figther
@@adriancrosby84 💯%
Federer: class
Nadal: resilience
Djokovic: mental
But FEDAL all the way ❤
@@wraith2939 nadal has a lot of willpower, nole too, but in very differents ways.
I feel really touched to see you back, Rafa. May you enjoy each and every moment on the court. Please stay healthy, our legend.
Man this was so emotional to watch honestly dream comeback by Rafa the level he displayed that too against a Grand Slam Champion makes this win so damn special AO 2024 gonna be Epic 🔥💯
With Djokovic is impossible for rafa to win !
@@jagermikasa5630 with djokovic at his best, is impossible for anybody, not just Rafa.
Not true, remember Alcaraz defeated Djokovic at Wimbledon, in the finals, if anyone can do it, he can. @@Luiz-nb3uz
Yep, i agreed... but roland garros, this is another story.
Also, even djokovic gets older...
There is no certitude about how long he's going to keep such a high level.
Well possibly another 2 years, I think he could end up 28 or 30 GS, after what happened at Wimbledon 2019.@@stevenbizzocchi2991
It’s emotional watching this! As the biggest Rafa fan I used to not be able to watch a match if I thought he would lose, this year with him back I’m going to watch every single one. What an inspiration he is to come back after a year out! ❤
Try being a James Blake fan of years past. Every point was in peril with Blake's hit 100+ mph balls whether for winners or into the net!
Es el más grande. Y nos ha dado tanto!! Orgullosos de él!!
He's now 550 at the live ranking. Hopefully this talented youngster can break into top 300 soon 🎉
Dont know, great win but he seems to have a very tiring game. Not sure if he can keep that up match after match. Could be just a peak.
🤣🤣
Perfect comment!
This guy can sit a year off and come back in full swing. How impressive ! I mean sure, still a lot to uncover as the matches string one after the other, and I hope he'll have the sense of avoiding smaller tournaments from now on, he can keep his chances for Roland Garros if he's healthy enough.
Didn't look at the top to me but good enough to win. That's probably a good thing: means Nadal is feeling less pressure to run down every ball.
@@andrewmiller3055 Agree, hard to say he was top notch, Thiem is not playing at a great level either. It's true Nadal did not pursue every ball, but that's smart. And I suppose he'll be able to reach the 8th round in AO if the draw is normal, but I won't bet about him getting any further (though he has a habit of outperforming the odds after a comeback).
Nadal too good. This is why he is one of the greatest
Ни когда он не был не будет и не станет великим!!!
@@levon4548no,that's you 🤣🤣🤣🤣
Too good, against a washed out 28 year old, with no self belief, put him against Alcaraz, and see how easily he gets destroyed!
@@levon4548зачем там пробел дружок
@@levon4548goodluck with your useless life 😂
Sin Rafa realmente nos faltaba algo. Es una gran alegría verle jugando de nuevo.
Rafa est vraiment incroyable. 1 an sans compétition et il joue le feu. Incroyable. Quel magnifique premier set entre les 2 joueurs !
Ce type est une exception
Vous êtes vaxxé ?
Wow, I didn´t expect Rafa to play that good in his very first match. But that was "vintage" Nadal!
I'll use the V word once I've seen him grind out a few five-set wins
😂 for the original comment and the reaction.
Can’t help putting a negative comment?
@@vidyasonavane9602 who is being negative?
As rafa fans we need to cherish every moment he is on court, win or lose. And wish him a healthy 2024
Wow. That was shockingly good. I didn’t want to get my hopes too high for this comeback, but after that match I’m thinking he might actually have a rafa-like year. Wonderful to see
Watched the whole video with the smile, didn't care if he lost or won the point.The depth of his backhands was just great.
Can't wait for the Aussie Open.
Wish him a lot health!!
1 or second round exit for Nadal on Australian open.
Yes, just like Murray, I don't think either of them will make 2nd week.@@Jamura90
@@Jamura90he'll be exiting Australia with the Australian Open title 🏆 🐐 🎾
@@rogerundisputedgoat Sure...he cant beat anyone in top 10 right now.
Same here... I was all smiles for Nadal
Really glad to see him be back. I cross fingers for him to remain healthy. Tennis needs him
兩大傳奇之一的費爸已退役了...
I can't help but smile. I am having a hard time at the moment, as everyone does. He is so inspiring, I can't help but thinking that one has to keep fighting. Like he does.
That backhand winner from the middle of the court off a high rally ball was one of the most impressive shots. He just took it and destroyed it out of nowhere! So happy to see him back like this!
Nadal looked good. He has not played for a long time so this is remarkable.
Es nuestro orgullo español, es nuestro Rafa para el mundo. Hay que disfrutarlo mucho. ¡Vamooss! 🙌❤🇪🇦
A estas alturas es un orgullo mundial, no solo español…
Vamos RAFA!! Ha sido el más grande, que nadie lo dude..
As a Djokovic fan, it's really good to see Rafa back. Maybe one more vs Djokovic. That match I wouldn't miss for anything
Never going to happen on hard court, Rafa won't even make it to the second week, Federer even at 42 stands better chance on hard court vs Djokovic than Nadal.
@@pauljohnson6019let’s see bro, Nadal seems to be in a nice shape considering his break
@@pauljohnson6019 Nadal hater i see :)
@@pauljohnson6019 they can play in the first week I think
Nadal knows Djokovic is still the favourite for AO24, no doubt, he'll probably fake another injury, to avoid a straight set loss in the final, ofc if Novak looses early, Nadal might stand 50% chance. @@mateuszoleksiak5089
He makes my heart beat quick, he makes my blood flow fast, the love I have for Rafa, will for an eternity last.
Rafa welcome back. We ♥️ you icon.
Felt the same, makes me fall in love with tennis all over again, we missed him on the court so much.
Deep backhands, the usual topspin forehands, dito slice serves, the net game and the mental strength. It's all there. He could be back at full strength.
It looks entirely possible. Way too early to start saying "vintage Rafa" but if he gets deep into the AO we'll know for sure
Good for you to notice Nadal is not at full strength and that's a good thing for Nadal.
Ha vuelto el Rey del tenis🎉❤,que Dios conserve tu cuerpo sin lesiones,eres el Mejor,al menos para mi y ha sido emocionante volver a verte en una cancha de tenis y hacerlo tan bien, gracias 😊 Rey😘😘😘😘
Es un "Monstruo" del tenis y una Gran Persona. Gran Orgullo de el como español.
vale
Glad to see him hitting the ball like used to somewhat and not being in any pain. That’s the main thing he is legend
La alegría y emoción de volver a Rafa 🎾 de vuelta a la competencia ..y el nivel de tenis mostrado ..está muy rápido y esos golpes💯💯💯 ...después de un año sin competir ......es EMOCIONANTE ...GRACIAS 🎾 TENIS...por volver a ver a RAFAEL NADAL ...el deportista que más he admirado en mi vida ....
Damn I've missed Rafa! So pleased to see him come back (again!) and playing his first match in almost a year (and against a tough opponent) at such an excellent level, and moving well. Fingers massively crossed that his greatest nemesis - his own body - allows him to continue competing at a high level for at least another year or two. Best of luck Rafa, vamos!
Really missed watching you Rafa. Tennis for me has not been the same without you.
To make a come back after every injuries that he faced seems surreal for anyone.. The grit, determimation n passion for sport by rafa is unmatchable.. He is n will be the Greatest for me for sure...!
Coś pięknego patrzeć na idola❤prawie rok nie oglądałem pełnego meczu w tenisie, dopiero dziś, vamos Rafa😊
As a Serb, I am very happy that Nadal is back. With the younger generations, tennis is losing popularity, and Rafa brought me back to nostalgia and some beautiful tennis times. ❤️
Exactly! It's kinda sad that the young guys can't compete with a 36 yr Nole and that's crazy. So crazy that now people are counting on a 37 yr old Rafa coming off a big injury to be able to give Nole some good competition again. I mean if you notice...after Roger's retirement...Rafa and Nole were still winning almost all the slams. After Rafa, Nole was and is single handedly winning almost everything.
@@kryptonian1371 "...young guys can't compete with a 36 yr Nole..." That's a bit of a stretch :D
@@kryptonian1371What?? That’s really not true. Nole got beat two times by Rune and really struggled against Sinner, and Carlos is very close too. Think the competition is good enough for him to be honest
@@h.d.l. They cant at all, only alcaraz at his best might beat him. Djokovic was winning the slams last year without any sliding which means he was playing at 50%.
Thank you for admitting that! Most if not all of Novak fans don't want to admit that
THE GOAT IS BACK. Wow !! After a 349 days break playing like that is just out of this world! What a powerful performance. The shot on 1:53 and 2:55 are the reason why Rafa is the Goat.
Rafa: the most resilient tennis player of all time. Well done and a great effort from Thiem too.😊
Indescriptible volver a verte jugar, qué ganas había rafa. No sé que haré cuando te retires porque lo que tu me haces sentir en una pista no lo hace nadie.
Like he never left, outstanding, legend
Nadal is GOAT
This doesn’t indicate that he was out for almost a YEAR. What a performance
Nadal is really hard to doubt, fabulous start ❤🎉
well done! Nadal! That's a great performance
Impresionante Rafa! Increíble, un año entero sin jugar y después de una intervención quirúrgica... Esto es un regalo, gracias por tanto Rafa!
the key for Nadal in 2024 is to play without pressure, so he can play free and can perform at his best, so happy for Rafa, at the same time sad for Thiem
Without Rafa there wouldn't be this global interest in tennis right now. He brought the magic with his unique do or die persona and his strong will to win against all odds. A hipinjury is very difficult to come back from and to see him playing like this he must've worked so hard to get here and that is his magic that he delivers. There is no one like him and we may never see someone like him again. A Champ in every sense of the word. Rafa forever! Most fascinating sportsman ever!!!
Incredible. Nadal can still do Nadal things. 🎉🤩👑😍🥊. If he stays fit and can play at or near his level, then another slam is possible but just great to see him back, healthy and doing what he loves and does so well. VAMOSSS!!!!
If he continues to maintain his health and sustains the level at which he is currently hitting the ball, I genuinely believe he could once again be the favorite for Roland Garros.
Oleeee !! Torero !! Venga Rafa !! Let’s get this 2024 on Fire 🔥 welcome back ! And watch out for Nole :El Loco !! 🇲🇽from Mexico with Respect!! 🎾🎾
Oh wow!!! It’s an absolute pleasure to watch my all time favourite player and the one and only RAFA. 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼 all the best👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼
Rafa and Djokovic are still so incredibly important for the sport. We should all cherish every moment we have left. You are watching the tail end of the golden era of tennis.
Great start Rafa Welcome back. Also sad to see Thiem struggling nowadays , he is completely different compared to his peak form, feel like he won"t comeback :(
Nah he done, even Murray might beat him, heck even Federer stands better chance.
VAMOOOOOOS MAESTRO 👑💪🏻❤🎾🇪🇸 LET'S ENJOY HIM WHILE IT LAST!! VAMOOOOOOS RAFAAAAA!!! 🐐
I am surprised by the phenomenonal level displayed by Nadal after such a long lay off.
Yet again he has proved to be the come back King and if he stays healthy, he can be very competitive at Australian open.
Yeah, until he meets Alcaraz, who will destroy him on hard court, not to mention Med/Djokovic, let's wait and see, if Nadal miraculously wins AO24, I'll believe I can walk on air!😆
@@pauljohnson6019 I think his goal is RG not AO anyway...
@@pauljohnson6019 What I said was relative. That early rustiness wasn't visible and that is so characteristic of Nadal.
For me, Nadal has zero chance to win Australian open, but he will have his chances as usual in the clay season.
Yes, I see it impossible of winning AO24, with DJOKOVIC there, unless there is someone who beats Novak, and plays terrible in the finals, which is a possibility, like Medvedev.@@juanv5375
@@pauljohnson6019imagine replying on every comment praising nadal just to send some hate. must feel bad being a rafa hater 😂😂
I felt Nadal's backhand in this match was awesome, better than it's ever been. Does anyone else feel the same ?
I agree. His backhand looked incredible. Seems like he was super confident and didn't run around it as much. It was smooth and really powerful
He looks strong all-round. We could be in for a real treat this year
Last point summarised Rafa's career, he kept throwing back whatever came at him. Proud of u RN!
El mejor deportista español de todos los tiempos RAFA NADAL ♥️🇪🇸🇪🇸 volvió una leyenda
Coming from Novak's die hard fan - I am so happy to see Rafa back, I hope that he can give us a couple of years more, the game of tennis needs him and Novak so much, young guys are good, but they can never be compared to these all time greats.
Nadal is back and he's back with his old form! I celebrate that! Impressive when you consider that he hasn't played an official match for almost a year. I hope he stays injury-free and can enjoy the coming year. Vamos Rafa!💪🏻
Rafa will win this year's RG as long as he doesn't get injured.
Oh Nadal I'm so glad you're back .. this win brought tears to my eyes with excitement for you .. all the best in the future 🙏🏾🥰😍❤
Tennis last year without Nadal and Federer lost its magic. Now I can start watching tennis again 😀 Vamos Rafa👏🔥
Same
lolst it s magic cause you re just a casual fanboy and nothing more. alcaraz alone is far far more entertaining than nadal and close to federer in pure entertainment, and there are plenty other players that play explosive tennis.
You mean without the 2nd and 3rd best players....
@@Lucifer.6.6.6. I mean when I don't ask you then u won't write shits in chats. Federer then Nadal and fullstop
@VladRadu-tq1pg Hi Vlad! You are entitled to your opinions and I'm glad that you like other good active tennis players. But, you don't know me and I don't think it's nice writing "you re just a casual fanboy and nothing more". It's the beginning of the year, let's spread some much needed love instead in this crazy world. Cheers ❤️
Vamos Rafa! At this stage, Win or lose its a joy watching him play tennis
Most times, I’d be rooting for Thiem after all he’s gone thru, but for this matchup, my heart was with Nadal.
Rafa is back! Such a great athlete and role model. Vamos! ❤🚀
Role model? Good one mate :)))))
Yes, Rafa is the best possible ambassador for tennis today.
@@nncdcd8683 in spain maybe
@@razvan6989Best role model in Tennis
A piece of me just came back to life it feels like. Rafa back on court 😀 also hoping Thiem will find his form again, I'd love for him to be competitive again
Surpassed my expectations honestly. Looked really strong 👌
Que bom ver nadal de volta ! Espero muito ver um Nadal x Djokovic 😍
nadal ,what an athlete,what a man ,what a personality,tennis world will always remember one name rafa ,he is the goat ,stats wouldve been double had he not been injured in numerous times ,rafa nadal is the goat of tennis ,the legend ,utmost respect for you rafa.
I’m a fan of both these guys, but Nadal’s play was impeccable
That was unbelievable. Surpassed expectations by a mile ❤
i' m a die hard Federer fan, even if he' s retired, but i ve always tought that Nadal would have come back strong !
He is a legend for a reason... when him and Djokovic will retire they will be another sad days for tennis, i hope that it will happen as late as possible.
As a Rafa fan, I have endured the entire 2023 without him. As much I like seeing him win, it is a moment of pure joy, seeing Nadal play without pain. Going to savour every moment of your return to the tour, my king! 🥹🥹
Verte de nuevo así... me hace tan feliz,mil gracias por haber hecho que me apasione desde el 2004 a un deporte tan bonito como el tennis don Rafael nadal parera♥️
Welcome back Rafa! Incredible level ❤❤
Against who? Thiem's level was awful- it's all relative in tennis.
@@pauljohnson6019 Thiems level in the first set was actually very good. He could not keep up in the second.
Yeah, that's suspicious, do you think it was fixed, because the AO21 win against Medvedev seemed fixed to me, losing from 2-0 up, something very odd was up, with the crowd, and umpire not telling them to shut up.@@NortonHughes-v3r
Surely the outbreak of Alcaraz helped to pass through 2023, but not until today many of us Spaniards realized how much we missed watching Nadal, great to have his tennis, his spirit and his energy back on the court.
Novak fan here, and it is nice to see Rafa back on the court again. Looking good, looking sharp. Hope he stays healthy for a whole season. Thiem still struggling to get back on the top tier level. Will we ever see him back in top 10/15 again?
Legend is back, one could only imagine what more his career would have been if not for injuries #goat
I dropped a couple of tears when he got to the court😊
Oh my! Yes me too! How much we missed him 😢 The entire tennis World missed him
Tears of joy
I am so so happy to Nadal back in action.
such a great come back that was. looking forward to seeing him playing on all the surfaces especially the CLAY!
It’s impressive what Fed, Nadal, Djokovic, and Murray have been able to accomplish later in their careers competing against younger players, I love Thiem as well and I have been rooting for his comeback. Great classic match between two champions!
Rafa returns in style 💪
Rafa great win ! My idol is back 💕💕
VAMOOOOOOS MAESTRO! LETS ENJOY HIM WHILE IT LAST!!!
I didn’t expect this level. Well done Senor Nadal 👏🏼👏🏼🙏🏼
The world waited. The world wished. The world watched. The world was amazed. The world was satisfied.
Just simply nice to watch these two wonderful tennis players, Rafa & Dominic are special professionals. Both put their best foot forward and competed well . A positive step for Nadal and Thiem after absent on tour due to injuries.Really hope both of them excel in 2024. A win for Rafa tonight is a big boost for his confidence and morale. For Thiem he will surely get to a better level shortly.
Rafa on the court = happiness 😀😀😀. Dominic on the court = happiness 😀😀😀
Regresa una leyenda del tenis y el rey de Roland Garros. Puede ser su año de despedida o el año en que comience su remontada hacia el Top 10.
What a comeback ❤ feels sooooo good to see RaFA
The love this guy receives is unparalleled.
Rafa un año sin jugar, y yo un año sin ver tenis. Sin Rafa no me interesaba. Hoy vuelvo a ver tenis y a disfrutar!!!
For a Federer fan since 20 years, I could not believe how happy I would be to see Rafa on court once again. But here we are and this (possibly) last year I will follow him as a fan and his play today was very promising considering the long absence.
However, I really like Thiem as well and hope that he can find a competitive level again. It’s not that bad but everything is just a little bit worse than when he was a contender at the highest level.
Man he is moving so beautifully on the court ❤❤❤
hmmmm no
@@alberto19761you must have watched a different match than us 😂
Unbelievably beautiful 🤩
@@alberto19761Quiet kid. GOATs back.
@@jadenw-d5562 no goats on that court
I dont even care if Rafa wins anything this year. Its just such a blessing to have him back on tour. For me its like seeing the last matches of Roger. Every match that i can witness his style and beauty of play makes me so happy. The rest history will tell, either way. He will be one of the legends of this sport, no matter the outcome of the rest of his career.