Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Rafael Nadal Returns to Court a Year After Retirement With Alexandra Eala

The retired 22-time major champion shared a filmed hit with former academy student Alexandra Eala in Mallorca.

Overview

  • Nadal posted video of the practice from his Rafa Nadal Academy in Manacor on Nov. 19, exactly one year after stepping away from the tour.
  • His X post read, "One year later, it felt great to be back on a tennis court! It was great to practice with you @AlexEala05! Next time I will be stronger."
  • Syndicated footage showed Nadal lacing up, taping his racquet, rallying with Eala, and exchanging a high-five after the session.
  • Outlets report no official plan for a competitive return, with any chatter about exhibitions or a comeback characterized as speculation.
  • Eala, 20, a graduate of Nadal's academy, rose in 2025 with a Miami Open semifinal run, a first Filipino Grand Slam main-draw win at the US Open, and a career-high WTA No. 50.