Nadal cautious after winning return in Chile

Originally published on: 06/02/13 00:00

The world No. 5 joined forces with Juan Monaco as the pair claimed a 6-3 6-2 victory over second seeds Frantisek Cermak and Lukas Dlouhy in the first round of the VTR Open.

Nadal, who has not played since June after struggling with a knee injury, issued a word of caution ahead of his opening singles match against Federico Delbonis in Vina del Mar.

"It was a great feeling to play again and I'm very happy for doing it with a friend like Monaco in a great atmosphere that we had on the court," Nadal said.

"In doubles the effort is always less [taxing]; we will see how it goes in singles and how my physical condition is. I chose this tournament because it is the perfect time and surface."

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By Tim Farthing

About the Author / Tim Farthing

Tim Farthing, Tennishead Editorial Director & Owner, has been a huge tennis fan his whole life. He's a tennis journalist and entrepreneur as well as playing tennis to a national standard. He also helps manage his local club and volunteers for his local tennis organisation. He's a specialist in content about the administration of professional tennis and tennis coaching for all levels.