Picture Credit: X
Former World No. 1, Rafael Nadal recently made headlines after he announced his withdrawal from the first Grand Slam of the year, the Australian Open 2024. With a tournament kickstarting in a few days’ time, the Spaniard pulled up a muscle injury during the Brisbane International, forcing his withdrawal and delaying his return.
However, this might seem to be his final few years, the Australian Open Director, Craig Tiley hasn't ruled out the Spaniard’s presence at the tournament. “I’m absolutely planning on seeing him next year,” Tiley said on Monday when asked whether Nadal may not return to the AO.
“I’m planning on seeing him for a private catch-up, which we always do, before he leaves town in the next few days and then I’ll ask him that same question. He loves to play and of course we would love to have him back in Melbourne under any circumstances - whether he’s playing or whatever else he’s doing,” the AO Director added.
The 37-year-old, who will turn 38 in June this year took to X to confirm hi withdrawal from the Australian Open on Sunday. “Hi all, during my last match in Brisbane I had a mall problem on a muscle that as you know made me worried. Right now I am not ready to compete at the maximum level of exigence in 5 sets matches. I’m flying back to pain to see my doctor, get some treatment and rest,” he captioned the post.
It is to be noted that Nadal aggravated a hip injury which curtailed his entire 2023 season, forcing an early exit from the Australian Open exactly a year ago.
