Spanish tennis sensation Rafael Nadal has withdrawn from the Australian Open due to a “micro tear on a muscle,” just a week after returning from a year-long injury hiatus. Despite the setback, Nadal remains optimistic about his recovery.
The 37-year-old had been sidelined since sustaining a hip injury at the 2023 Australian Open, undergoing surgery before marking his comeback at the Brisbane International. Although he clinched victory in his initial two matches, a quarter-final loss to Jordan Thompson saw him take a medical timeout due to pain in his upper left thigh.
Addressing the situation, Nadal revealed, “During my last match in Brisbane, I had a small problem on a muscle that, as you know, made me worried.” He confirmed the presence of a micro tear on a muscle, albeit in a different area from his previous injury, offering a glimmer of positivity.
Acknowledging his unpreparedness for the rigors of five-set matches, Nadal announced his decision to return to Spain for consultation with his doctor, seeking treatment and rest.
Injuries have been a recurring theme in Nadal’s illustrious career, a consequence of his intense and aggressive playing style, leading to struggles with knee, wrist, and foot problems.
Having set realistic expectations in Brisbane, Nadal emphasized, “I have worked very hard during the year for this comeback, and my goal is to be at my best level in three months.”
Expressing regret at not being able to play in front of Melbourne’s passionate crowds, Nadal remained positive about the season’s trajectory. He thanked his supporters and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to play in Australia, promising to return soon.
Nadal’s career boasts 22 Grand Slam titles, with notable triumphs at the French Open, US Open, Wimbledon, and the Australian Open. His absence saw a slip in rankings to 672, while his rival Novak Djokovic surpassed him in Grand Slam titles with 24.
