22 Nov 2012

Nadal returns to training after long layoff

11:47 am on 22 November 2012

The former world tennis No.1 Rafael Nadal has returned to training at his Mallorca base after nearly five months on the sidelines with a knee injury.

Nadal last played at Wimbledon in late June.

He's been troubled by inflammation behind his left kneecap, a problem that has sidelined him several times over the years.

However he says his knee has been on the mend in recent months.

The 26-year-old Spaniard hopes to be fully fit in time for next year's first Grand Slam event, the Australian Open in the second half of January.