March 07, (THEWILL) – Rafael Nadal has withdrawn from the Indian Wells Masters just a day before his opening match. The 22-time Grand Slam champion cited not being ready for the demands of top-level tournament tennis following his lengthy injury layoff last year.
The 37-year-old Spaniard missed nearly all of the 2023 season due to an abdominal injury and other issues. He had played just one tournament this year in Brisbane before a hip flare-up forced him out. Nadal had been set to face Milos Raonic in the first round at Indian Wells on Thursday.
“It is with great sadness that I have to withdraw from this amazing tournament,” Nadal said. “I have been working hard…but I don’t find myself ready to play at the highest level at such an important event.” The 14-time French Open champion insisted it was not an easy decision but one he could not lie about to fans.
Tournament director Tommy Haas expressed disappointment at the withdrawal of one of the all-time fan favourites at Indian Wells. “We wish him continued healing and hope he can be back in action again soon,” Haas stated. Nadal had shown encouraging form in a recent exhibition loss to compatriot Carlos Alcaraz in Las Vegas.
The shocking late pullout will inevitably raise more questions about Nadal’s future and potential retirement date. The legendary lefty has been plagued by injuries throughout his illustrious career due to his physical playing style. He had contemplated retiring in 2023 before deciding to continue.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
