Friday 26 September 2014 11:44, UK
Rafael Nadal is determined to forget the wrist injury which saw him miss his title defence at Flushing Meadows last month as he made his return to action.
The world No 2 beat Frenchman Jo-Wilfried Tsonga 6-7 (2-7) 6-3 6-4 in an exhibition match in Astana on Thursday.
It was the Spaniard's first match since his fourth-round loss to Australia's Nick Kyrgios at Wimbledon on July 1.
I feel much better, I am in good shape. I am trying to forget the wrist. I am trying to get back into a rhythm but that takes time.
The nine-time French Open champion was forced to miss the US Open due to the injury, but is now ready to make his competitive return in Beijing next week and then Shanghai.
"Every time when I come back after an injury I have an extra motivation," said the 28-year-old, who was playing his first ever match in Kazakhstan.
"I'm set to work hard to gain my top form and to return to my level. I'm very happy to have an opportunity to play tennis - my favourite occupation."
"I feel much better, I am in good shape. I am trying to forget the wrist. I am trying to get back into a rhythm but that takes time. This has helped.
"I will play in Beijing and Shanghai. My goal is to play and practice as much as possible and be ready for the end of the season."
Despite the long layoff, Nadal has already booked his place in the season-ending ATP World Tour Finals at London's O2 Arena in November.
