Rafael Nadal a doubt for Australian Open after testing positive for Covid-19

Rafael Nadal has tested positive for Covid-19 in a development that could throw his Australian Open participation further into doubt.

The 20-time grand slam champion returned to action last week after more than four months out with a foot problem, suffering defeats to Andy Murray and Denis Shapovalov on Friday and Saturday at an exhibition event in Abu Dhabi.

Speaking after his defeat by Shapovalov at the weekend, Nadal admitted he could not guarantee his participation at the Australian Open. Most players are due to head to Australia shortly after Christmas for the start of the new season. There are not currently expected to be any quarantine requirements but, with Covid-rates soaring in a number of countries, the virus could well have a significant impact on the tournament.