Max Purcell thinks he's playing better than ever, determined to find a silver lining in his 18-month career pause as he prepares for a Davis Cup return.
The 28-year-old will play doubles for Australia on Sunday in Brisbane, where the hosts face Poland in a must-win tie if they're to feature in next year's finals in Italy.
Purcell, a five-time doubles finalist at majors and a two-time winner (2022 Wimbledon with Matthew Ebden, 2024 US Open with Jordan Thompson), got to No.40 in the world in singles in 2023.
But the Tokyo Olympian had his career halted after he was handed an 18-month ban for an anti-doping breach.
Purcell initially copped a two-year ban when found to have a number of vitamins - all of which were on the approved list - in his system above the legally permitted levels.
He said it was the result of an IV infusion after he fell sick while holidaying in Bali, and had the ban reduced because of his co-operation.
Still, the punishment was viewed sympathetically in the tennis community, and Australian captain Lleyton Hewitt wasted no time in recalling him for what will be Purcell's first tie in two years.
"I actually feel like I'm playing a lot better now than I was in 2024," said Purcell, who has played lower-level events in Japan, China, Jamaica and Vietnam since returning in June.
"Physically I'm a lot better and haven't lost anything, and getting to play with Rinky (Hijikata) will be great."
World No.9 Alex de Minaur will power Australia, set to face world No.231 Maks Kasnikowski in Saturday's Pat Rafter Arena opener.
James Duckworth will then meet Kamil Majchrzak in Saturday's other fixture.
The doubles will open proceedings on Sunday, before the two reverse singles rubbers.
"It's amazing to see Max out there with the team, and as you've seen, hitting the ball unbelievable," de Minaur said of Purcell.
"What he's been able to do in the green and gold is nothing but spectacular.
"He has so much pride whenever these ties are played. We've got a great group here. Everyone knows how proud we should be and the honour we have."
