When returning to form in December, Nadal had tested positive for COVID-19, keeping him away from the practice court.
Nadal made a huge statement ahead of the season’s first Grand Slam – Australian Open – by lifting the Melbourne Summer Set trophy.
The Spaniard marked his return to the ATP Tour in some style, beating American qualifier Maxime Cressy 7-6, 6-3 in the final.
As a result of a left foot injury, the ‘King of Clay’ had not played a singles match since the Citi Open last August.
Australian Open news: Rafael Nadal set to fly to Melbourne after overcoming COVID-19