Tennis champion Rafael Nadal has been forced to withdraw from the Australian Open after he suffered a new injury during his match with an Aussie last week.
The former world No.1 took to Instagram on Sunday night, saying he will not be competing at the first Grand Slam of the year next week due to a “small problem” on a muscle sustained during his match with Jordan Thompson at the Brisbane International.
“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,” he said.
Nadal, 37, conceded he could not compete at his maximum and battle with competitors on court for up to five sets, which can last at least three hours.
He will fly back home to Spain where he will undergo further examinations by his doctor, get treatment to the injury and much-needed rest.
The 22-time Grand Slam champion, who won the Australian Open in 2022, was devastated not to play after setting a goal of returning to court within three 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 continued in his Instagram post.
“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.
“Thanks all for the support and see you soon! Rafa.”
The announcement means it may have been the last time fans saw Nadal play in Australia.
He had been forced off the court for much of 2023, after he suffered a hip injury in his second-round loss to American Mackenzie McDonald at the Australian Open.
The 37-year-old was hopeful time off and treatment on the injury could see him bounce back, but he conceded months later 2024 will likely be his last full-time tour.
Nadal performed well in Brisbane last week, knocking out former No.3 Dominic Thiem in two sets and Aussie Jason Kubler, only dropping three games.
But his injury came about in his quarter final match against Thompson, who went on for one of the biggest wins of his career, defeating Nadal 5-7, 7-6(6), 6-3.
The next Grand Slam tournament is the French Open in late May, where the Spaniard, also known as The King of Clay, has won a record 14 titles.
The Australian Open begins on January 14.
(SKY NEWS)
