IANS

London, Jul 16: World No.2 Rafael Nadal is all set to return to action in the Montreal Masters next month to defend his title.

The Spaniard, whose last match was a shock defeat by Robin Soderling at the French Open, failed to defend his Wimbledon title because of tendinitis in his knees.

The absence from tennis saw Nadal losing his World No.1 ranking to Roger Federer.

Federer won the French Open title and was back to the top of world ranking after winning the Wimbledon, pushing Nadal to No.2.

"I am really looking forward to practicing again and to do what I like the most -- play tennis," the 23-year-old told his official website.

"The event in Montreal is important and I expect to be fit to play. Until then I need to continue to work on my recovery and practice."

Nadal was given the go-ahead to resume training after undergoing tests in Barcelona Tuesday.

"I am happy with the way the tests went and of the positive evolution of the injury as the doctors are saying," added Nadal.

He will train at his home in Mallorca before his planned return to action in Montreal August 10.

Nadal's doctor Angel Ruiz-Cotorro, said: "The evolution of his injury is positive and the player will continue with his physiotherapy and muscular work and will resume his tennis activity in a progressive way."

Nadal will continue with his recovery plan and will resume his tennis practice next Monday.