Former World Number One Rafael Nadal’s ranking has dropped to 644 after missing most of the last year through injury, but he is “just trying to enjoy every moment” of his planned returned to action at the Barcelona Open that began this week.

Nadal made a comeback at the Brisbane International at the start of this year, but was subsequently out of action following a problem with his hip.

The 22-time Grand Slam singles champion is excited about playing at Barcelona “one more time”, while at the same time indicating that 2024 would be his last year on tour.

“I can’t give you an injury update because the list is long. I can only tell you that today I feel myself, enough good to be on court tomorrow and that for me is so important.”

Nadal faces up to 21-year-old Italian Flavio Cobolli on Tuesday in Barcelona in a tournament the Spaniard has won a record 12 times.

“It means a lot to me to be able to play one more time here in Barcelona, a place that I have amazing success and a lot of unforgettable memories. I am just trying to enjoy every moment and I am excited about being on court in a professional tournament again, especially here at home,” added Nadal.

“I was not able to spend a lot of days on tour over the last two years, so I just want to enjoy every day I am able to play with the guys on a professional level. That means a lot for me.”