Rafael Nadal's Australian Open Participation in Doubt After Injury in Comeback Tournament
Rafael Nadal withdraws from Australian Open due to injury sustained in the quarterfinals of the Brisbane International, as confirmed by his X post
Rafael Nadal has announced that he will not be participating in the Australian Open due to an injury sustained during the quarterfinal match against Jordan Thompson at the Brisbane International. He revealed on X, previously known as Twitter, that he has suffered a "micro tear on a muscle" on Sunday, clarifying that it is not related to the hip injury that affected him last season.
"I'm currently not prepared to compete at the highest level for 5-set matches. I will be returning to Spain to consult my doctor, undergo treatment, and rest," he said.
The Brisbane International had signaled Nadal's much-anticipated return from injury, as he ramped up his training leading up to the Australian Open, marking his comeback to grand slam competition after nearly a year off the court.
He had not played since last years Australian Open and underwent hip surgery in June which ruled him out for the rest of the 2023 calendar.
Naomi Osaka from Japan returns the ball during her match against Karolina Pliskova from the Czech Republic at the Brisbane International tennis tournament in Brisbane on January 3, 2024. (Photo by Patrick HAMILTON / AFP) / --IMAGE RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE - STRICTLY NO COMMERCIAL USE-- (Photo by PATRICK HAMILTON/AFP via Getty Images)
Naomi Osaka remains positive despite defeat at Brisbane International
Nadal stated that his goal is to reach his peak in three months, just in time for the clay court season, which is his best surface.
"I'm disappointed that I couldn't play in front of the fantastic Melbourne crowds, but I'm staying positive about the season's progress," he remarked. "I was really looking forward to playing in Australia and I'm grateful for the matches I was able to play, which left me feeling happy and optimistic."
During a press conference in May, Nadal acknowledged that 2024 is "likely to be [his] final year on the professional tour," but last week he indicated he may continue on after this year. Following Nadal's announcement of his withdrawal from the Australian Open on Sunday, his compatriot Carlos Alcaraz expressed on Instagram, "We'll be eagerly awaiting your return at the next tournament Rafa! Wishing you a speedy recovery!"
The Australian Open expressed their love for Rafa, while the French Open, which Nadal has won a record 14 times, wished him well with a message of "Take care Rafa." This story has been revised to include new details.
