Rafael Nadal has withdrawn from the Australian Open with an injury after playing just one tournament in his comeback from 12 months on the sidelines. Nadal said he had concerns over his surgically repaired hip after needing a medical timeout in the third set of his Brisbane International quarterfinal loss to Jordan Thompson on Friday. Iga Swiatek Beats Angelique Kerber To Give Poland Early Lead Against Germany in United Cup 2023–24 Final.
The 22-time major winner initially said it seemed like more of a muscular problem than the tendon issue that caused him so much pain this time last year. He posted on social media Sunday that scans after he arrived in Melbourne revealed a small tear in the muscle and he was flying back to Spain for treatment.
Rafael Nadal Official Tweet
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.
Right… pic.twitter.com/WpApfzjf3C
— Rafa Nadal (@RafaelNadal) January 7, 2024
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… pic.twitter.com/FoFrr5AgMZ
— Rafa Nadal (@RafaelNadal) January 7, 2024
Nadal won his first two competitive matches of the year, beating former No. 3-ranked Dominic Thiem and Australian wildcard entry Jason Kubler, before losing to Thompson. He had three match points in the second set of his quarterfinal but lost in three. Coco Gauff Rallies To Beat Elina Svitolina To Retain Auckland Open 2024 Title.
The Australian Open is due to start January 14 at Melbourne Park.
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