(Tennis news) The Spaniard had not played since the Australian Open of last year due to surgery, and he had only recently made his much-awaited return from a serious hip injury at this year’s Brisbane International as a wildcard.
In his opening encounter, 37-year-old Rafael Nadal overcame Dominic Thiem, another previous major winner, with a vintage performance. Nadal then defeated fellow wildcard Jason Kubler in straight sets to go to the quarterfinals.
In order to get to the semi-finals, Nadal had to play Jordan Thompson, another home favorite. Thompson won the first set but lost three match points as the Australian easily defeated him 5-7 7-6[5] 6-3.
Nadal’s mobility was clearly hindered in the latter part of the exciting battle, and he acknowledged post-match that he was “not 100% sure” he would be ready for the first Grand Slam of the year.
The 37-year-old said on Sunday morning on X, then known as Twitter, that his condition will keep him from participating in Melbourne. He did, however, clarify that this injury was unrelated to his terrible hip trouble from the previous year.
“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,” Nadal wrote.
“Right now I am not ready to compete at the maximum level of exigence in five 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. Thanks all for the support and see you soon! Rafa.”
Due to Nadal’s extended absence, which caused him to fall to 672nd in the world, he was expected to join the 2024 Australian Open with a protected ranking. As a result of his withdrawal, Quentin Halys, a Frenchman, has advanced from qualifying to the main event.
On January 14, the first Grand Slam competition of the year gets underway.
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