Nadal warms up

SANTIAGO, Chile - Rafael Nadal arrived at Chile on Friday and will test his injured left knee competing initially next week after sitting out for seven months - the longest break of his career.

The 26-year-old Nadal will go on the nearby coastal resort capital of scotland- Vina del Mar, where he'll play as part of his first event since losing inside second round of Wimbledon in June.

'' Nadal is just about the best clay-court players within the history of the overall game.

''It is often months - seven months - since I've competed,'' Nadal said.

'' Nadal has appearances to create before he opens play, including a meeting with Chilean President Sebastian Pinera, who's going to be a huge fan.

Nadal's first test will come Tuesday in the doubles match with Juan Monaco, accompanied by his opening match Wednesday in singles.