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Rafael Nadal (Source: Rafael Nadal Instagram)
In what seems to be a big disappointment for ardent Rafael Nadal fans, the veteran star has pulled himself out of the Australian Open 2024, which is set to start on Sunday, January 14, 2024. Nadal confirmed his unavailability from the marquee tennis tournament in a recent post on his official Instagram handle.
In his recent Instagram post, the 37-year-old revealed the injury that he sustained during the Brisbane International in the quarter-final clash against Australia’s Jordan Thomson. The tough contest between two superstars lasted for 3 hours and 26 minutes.
But the veteran Spaniard couldn’t help himself out to earn two points in the second tie-breaker due to the injury that he sustained during the match. Eventually, Jordan Thompson emerged victorious after a 3-set battle. Earlier in the tournament, Nadal registered two emphatic wins in the first two rounds to make it to the quarter-finals of the tournament.
"I have worked very hard during the year for this comeback." - Rafael Nadal
“Hi all, during my last match in Brisbane I had a small problem with a muscle that as you know made me worried. Once I got to Melbourne, I had the chance to have an MRI and I had a micro tear on a muscle, not in the same part where I had the injury and that’s good news. Right now, I am not ready to compete at the maximum level of exigence in 5-set matches. Therefore, I'm flying back to Spain to see my doctor, get some treatment and rest,” wrote Nadal in his Instagram post.
“I have worked very hard during the year for this comeback and as I always mentioned my goal is to be at my best level in 3 months. Within the sad news for me for not being able to play in front of the amazing Melbourne crowds, this is not very bad news and we all remain positive with the evolution for the season,” he added later.
Furthermore, the star two-handed backhand also mentioned his desire to be a part of the upcoming Australian Open and also extended his gratitude to the fans.
“I wanted to play here in Australia and I have had the chance to play a few matches that made me very happy and positive. Thanks all for the support and see you soon!” he concluded.