Rafael Nadal steps out ahead of Brisbane International

Rafael Nadal has come out swinging, taking to the court for his first practice ahead of the Brisbane International on Sunday.

Rafael Nadal at Pat Rafter Arena ahead of the Brisbane International. Picture: Steve Pohlner

Rafael Nadal has come out swinging in Brisbane, taking to the court on Thursday for his first practice ahead of the Brisbane International on Sunday.

And fans will have the chance to meet him on Friday.

The Spanish superstar arrived late on Wednesday night and has started preparations for his first tournament after almost 12 months on the sidelines with a hip injury.

Brisbane International tournament director Cam Pearson said it was great to have the grand-slam winner back in Brisbane.

“Rafa loves Brisbane and is so excited to be back,” Mr Pearson said.

“He arrived late last night and was straight out on court practising today.”

The former World No.1 will make his highly anticipated comeback as a wildcard at the tournament, where he will be unseeded at a tour-level event for the first time since 2005.

“Rafa loves playing in front of a Brisbane crowd and will be taking time out to meet with fans in Queen Street Mall (on Friday),” Mr Pearson said.

It came as Aussie stars Thanasi Kokkinakis, Rinky Hijikata, Alexei Popyrin, Max Purcell, Aleksandar Vukic and Christopher O’Connell took to the Brisbane River for a pleasure cruise in scorching conditions.

The Brisbane International is set to bring in some big crowds as it returns to the Queensland capital for the first time in three years.

Other stars such as Naomi Osaka, Andy Murray, Thanasi Kokkinakis and Victoria Azarenka will also step out on court on New Year’s Eve for a thrilling week of hard-hitting tennis.

Australian tennis players catch a GoBoat on the river ahead of the Brisbane International. Picture: Steve Pohlner