Why did Rafael Nadal withdraw from the 2024 Indian Wells Open?
Only four days ago, the Spanish legend faced his compatriot in the first-ever ‘Netflix Slam.’ Fans are now facing the truth that he will not be at this year’s Indian Wells Open. What does the future hold for the fading star?
Rafael Nadal withdraws from the 2024 Indian Wells Open.
Rafael Nadal has announced on social media that he will withdraw from the 2024 Indian Wells Open. The news comes as a surprise as Nadal prepares for what many assume will be his final season on tour.
It is worth noting, however, that Nadal has not stated whether this will be the case. The 37-year-old will not face Canada’s Milos Raonic in the first round on Thursday night.He stated that he was dissatisfied with his rehabilitation.
“It is with great sadness that I have to withdraw from this incredible tournament in Indian Wells,” Nadal wrote on Wednesday night. “Everyone knows I adore this spot and enjoy playing here. That’s also one of the reasons I came to the desert so early to train and prepare.
I’ve been working hard and preparing, and as you all know, I took a test this weekend, but I don’t feel prepared to play at the highest level at such a significant event. It is not an easy decision; in fact, it is a difficult one, but I cannot lie to myself or to the thousands of supporters. I will miss you all, and I am confident the event will be a huge success.”
The legendary American tournament would have been Nadal’s second appearance on the ATP Tour this season, following an almost season-long absence last year when he only got to compete in the Australian Open, the year’s opening major.
His first and only appearance of the year occurred in January’s Brisbane Invitational; however, he had to withdraw from the Australian Open owing to a muscular microtear. Nadal recently competed in the inaugural ‘Netflix Slam’ in Las Vegas, facing off against fellow Spaniard and current World No. 2 Carlos Alcaraz.
After winning the first set 6-3, he lost the second set and tiebreak to his younger opponent (14-12).At this point, it is uncertain what comes next for the 22-time Grand Slam winner, but he is scheduled to compete at the Barcelona Open in April, followed by his favorite tournament, the French Open.
Can Rafael Nadal still compete at the highest levels? Quite likely. How often can he do so without taking longer rests in between? That is difficult to say.