Renowned tennis player Rafael Nadal announced on Thursday that he would be withdrawing from the upcoming French Open. This is because of a persistent hip injury that has plagued him for months. The highly anticipated tournament is scheduled to commence on Monday at the Roland-Garros stadium in Paris, running until June 11.
During a press conference held at his tennis camp in Mallorca, Spain. The 36-year-old Nadal expressed his disappointment, stating, “I’m not going to be able to play in Roland-Garros. As you know, I was even working as much as possible every single day for the last four months.” Nadal had sustained the hip injury during the Australian Open in January, specifically during a match against Mackenzie McDonald.
The Spanish tennis great expressed the difficulties he has faced in finding a solution to the lingering issue, saying, “[They] have been very difficult months because we were not able to find the solution to the problem that I had in Australia, so today I still am in the position that I am not able to feel myself and ready to compete at the standards that I need to be to play at Roland-Garros.”
Nadal, who has dedicated 22 years to professional tennis. Currently shares the record for the most men’s singles Grand Slam titles with Novak Djokovic, both holding 22 titles. Rafael Nadal has exceptional achievements including 14 French Open victories, two Australian Open titles, four U.S. Open wins, and two Wimbledon championships.
When asked about the possibility of retirement, Nadal remained uncertain, stating. “I don’t want to say one thing and then do the other. It’s better to hold the options open and see what’s the best calendar possible.” He did express a desire to participate in the Olympics, which will be hosted in Paris next summer.
Earlier this year, Nadal had already withdrawn from matches in Monte Carlo, Monaco; Madrid, and Rome due to his ongoing injury. Despite his setback, he remains hopeful of making a comeback and continuing his successful tennis career.
As Rafael Nadal’s absence creates a void in the French Open lineup, fans and fellow players alike will undoubtedly miss witnessing his exceptional skills and competitive spirit on the clay courts of Roland-Garros.
