Watch: Rafael Nadal trains ahead of the Indian Wells Masters
Rafael Nadal has shared a photo of himself practicing for his next tournament on Instagram. The Spaniard won his third title of the year at the Abierto Mexicano Telcel over the weekend and is set to compete at the Indian Wells Masters next. The men's singles event is set to begin on 10 March.
The Spaniard recently arrived in California and expressed his joy at being back in the city.
"Here we are back at this amazing part of the world. What a place, what a tournament. #indianwells Looking forward to seeing again my US fans of the west coast! 😉😘"
Rafa is in Indian Wells! 😍❤️ https://t.co/j3tyuGPIFf
Nadal is a three-time champion at Indian Wells. He won his first title at the tournament in 2007, defeating Novak Djokovic in the final. He picked up his next title in 2009, besting Andy Murray in the summit clash. The Spaniard won his most recent title in 2013, defeating Juan Martin del Potro in three sets in the decider. He was also a finalist in 2011.
But since 2013, Nadal's best results at the tournament have been a couple of semifinal appearances in 2016 and 2019. The 2021 edition of the event was held in October, but the former World No. 1 didn't compete due to a foot injury.
He's one of the favorites to win the title this year based on his recent form.
Rafael Nadal has made his best ever start to a season
After ending his 2021 season in August due to an injury, Rafael Nadal returned to action at the 2022 Melbourne Summer Set in early January. He won his 89th career title at the event, marking a successful comeback.
The Spaniard then competed at the Australian Open, where he made it to the final after notching up wins over players like Karen Khachanov, Denis Shapovalov and Matteo Berrettini.
Nadal lost the first couple of sets against Daniil Medvedev in the final, but staged a spectacular turnaround to win his 21st Grand Slam title. He also completed a double Career Grand Slam with his win in Melbourne.
Nadal's third tournament of the year was the Abierto Mexicano Telcel, which he won without losing a set.
With three titles and a 15-0 record, the Spaniard has made his best ever start to a season. He has looked unstoppable so far and will aim to keep his unbeaten streak going in Indian Wells as well.