Rafael Nadal injury struggles continued as the former World No.1 is set to miss the Australia Open 2024 due to a muscle problem.
The 37-year old Spaniard who was out with a hip problem since January 2023, returned to action in almost a year at the Brisbane International presented by Evie where he was knocked out in the quarter finals by World No.43 Jordan Thompson in a three hours and 25 minutes battle.
Confirming his Injury, the 92-time titlist posted on his social media platform to inform fans on Sunday, stating that he will miss Australian Open due to a muscle problem he picked up in Brisbane.
“Hi all, during my last match in Brisbane I had a small problem on a muscle that as you know made me worried. Once I got to Melbourne I have had the chance to make an MRI and I have micro tear on a muscle, not in the same part where I had the injury and that’s good news,” Rafael Nadal posted on X.
“Right now I am not ready to compete at the maximum level of exigence in 5 sets matches. I’m flying back to Spain to see my doctor, get some treatment and rest.
“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.
“I really wanted to play here in Australia and I have had the chance to play a few matches that made me very happy and positive.
The news will been seen as a sad tale by supporters of the 22-time grand slam champion who missed the entirety of last season due to his injury issues
“Thanks all for the support and see you soon”, Rafael concluded a day before the opening match of Australian Open 2024.
With Rafael Nadal’s withdrawal from this year’s Australian Open, this will be the first men’s singles main draw at the event without either Nadal or Roger Federer since 1999.
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