After nearly a year out of the game, Spanish superstar Rafael Nadal has announced he will return to the tour via the Brisbane International in January.

The 22-time grand slam winner posted a video to social media outlining his plans for 2024, suggested that it would be his “last year”.

Nadal hasn’t been seen on the tour since suffering a hip flexor injury during the second round of the Australian Open.

“After one year outside of the tour, I think it is the right moment to be back,” Nadal said.

“So I feel ready to announce that I will be back in Brisbane the first week of the season.

“I believe I have worked hard all my sport life so that my end isn’t here at this press conference. I am going to work hard to finish my career in the right way.”

Nadal’s 22 grand slam wins is only second behind Novak Djokovic’s mark of 24.

The 37-year-old underwent surgery in June and despite the doubts of many, will attempt a final swan song in 2024.

Nadal’s announcement is a huge coup for the Brisbane International. It will be the first time the Spaniard has appeared at the Queensland tournament.

Last month, Australian Open director Craig Tiley confirmed that Nadal will play in the first major of the year.

Nadal will be aiming to win his third Australian Open, having been successful in 2009 and 2022.