Nadal returns, Djokovic looking for redemption in Rome

Rafael Nadal returns to competition after a six-month enforced break while Novak Djokovic is looking to make up for his US Open disqualification as the short clay-court season got underway in Rome on Monday without spectators.

The tournament at Rome’s Foro Italico normally takes place in May but was pushed back after the coronavirus pandemic turned the calendar upside down.

“Obviously, it’s not the same thing. There is no public, we are in a bubble, we cannot enjoy the city,” said Nadal, who will play his first competitive match since his win in Acapulco at the end of February.

“But at least we have a tennis tournament.”