Rafael Nadal has decided to pull out of the Australian Open in order to receive treatment for a hip injury in his left side. The 22-time Grand Slam champion first sustained the injury during the 2023 tournament in Melbourne and had to undergo surgery, which led to him sitting out the rest of the season. This week, he returned to the court at the Brisbane International and experienced discomfort in the same hip after losing in the quarterfinals to Jordan Thompson.
On Sunday, Nadal took to social media to reveal that doctors in Melbourne had conducted an MRI, which confirmed a “micro tear on a muscle, not in the same part where I had the injury and that’s good news.” He also stated that he is currently not fit to compete at the level required in a major tournament and is heading back to Spain for treatment and rest.
The 37-year-old expressed his disappointment at not being able to play in Australia, but remained positive about his recovery and future prospects. Despite this setback, Nadal thanked his supporters and expressed his hope of returning to the court soon. He also mentioned that 2024 could potentially be his final season on the tour, but has not ruled out the possibility of a change of plans.
If his injury heals in the next three months, Nadal could be ready for the French Open, which is scheduled to begin on May 28 in Paris. He holds a record 14 titles on the clay courts of Roland Garros and has a strong track record in the tournament.
–Field Level Media
