In a highly anticipated event, Rafael Nadal, the 22-time Grand Slam champion, is set to make his comeback to the tennis court in an exhibition match against compatriot Carlos Alcaraz in Las Vegas on March 3, as announced by the fixture's broadcaster and organisers Netflix on Monday.
The clash between Nadal and world number two Alcaraz will take place at the Michelob Ultra Arena at the Mandalay Bay Resort, marking Nadal's return after nearly a year on the sidelines due to injury.
Expressing his enthusiasm for the upcoming match, Nadal stated, "I'm very excited for my first visit to Las Vegas, one of the most iconic and entertaining cities in the world. I'm also very excited to be playing with my fellow countryman Carlos Alcaraz. I am sure it will be a fantastic night of tennis."
Alcaraz, considered by many as Nadal's heir in the tennis world, is a former US Open champion and the reigning Wimbledon winner. The 20-year-old expressed his honor and happiness about sharing the court with Nadal, emphasizing the significance of the match dubbed "The Netflix Slam."
"He's an all-time great, of course, and his records and achievements speak for themselves. Rafa also is one of the nicest guys on Tour, and I look forward to our match on March 3," said Alcaraz, setting the stage for what promises to be an exciting and historic encounter between the veteran and the emerging talent.
Netflix, the US-based streaming giant, said further players and matches would later be announced for the event.