Rafael Nadal reacts to Alexander Zverev returning to action after horror injury



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Rafael Nadal reacts to Alexander Zverev returning to action after horror injury

Record 22-time Grand Slam champion Rafael Nadal is happy to see Alexander Zverev returning to tennis following a long injury break. Zverev, 25, broke several ankle ligaments during his French Open semifinal match against Nadal - the German was in great pain and had to be assisted in a wheelchair before leaving the court.

In September, Zverev suffered a bone edema injury that ended his 2022 season. Now, Zverev is healthy as he has kicked off his 2023 season at the inaugural United Cup. Nadal, who is also competing at the United Cup, took a moment to wish a happy return to Zverev.

"Good to have you back @alexzverev123," Nadal wrote on his Instagram Story.

Nadal happy Zverev is healthy again

Nadal and Zverev were in the middle of a grueling battle when the German went down in a horror injury.

On Saturday, Zverev played his first match on the main level since the French Open. Unfortunately for Zverev, it didn't go well for him as Jiri Lehecka stunned the German 6-4 6-2. After suffering a shock loss, Zverev admitted that it will take him time before he rediscovers his best tennis.

Also, Zverev noted that he is not considering himself a contender for the Australian Open title. “I think it’s tough to set expectations high right now. It would be unrealistic and also quite stupid for me to set the expectations towards winning or something like that.

Of course, I want to win. Everybody wants to win. For me, it’s about getting back the form that I’m used to," Zverev said. At the French Open, Zverev came two wins away from winning a Grand Slam. Unfortunately - not only that Zverev didn't win the French Open - he sustained an injury that forced him to skip Wimbledon and the US Open.

Now, Zverev is healthy and preparing to make his Grand Slam return at the Australian Open. Zverev not having great expectations for the Australian Open may actually help the German to play more relaxed.

Rafael Nadal Alexander Zverev French Open