Rafael Nadal admits he ‘can’t lie’ to himself as he announces worrying Indian Wells withdrawal

Ewan West
Rafael Nadal after a match
Rafael Nadal post match

Rafael Nadal has sparked concerns over his tennis future after announcing his late withdrawal from the 2024 Indian Wells Open and declaring he “can’t lie” to himself or fans. 

The tennis legend revealed he was not ready “to play at the highest level at such an important event” after taking a test ahead of the tournament and expressed “great sadness” at having to make the decision.

Nadal was due to face former Wimbledon finalist Milos Raonic in the opening round in Indian Wells on Thursday, but pulled out late on the opening day of the event on Wednesday.

The former world No 1 was hoping to make his competitive return to action at the ATP Masters 1000 tournament, having faced Carlos Alcaraz in the Netflix Slam exhibition in Las Vegas on Sunday.

The 37-year-old, who is a three-time Indian Wells champion, has not played an official event since the Brisbane International in January, where he suffered a hip injury in his quarter-final loss to Jordan Thompson.

READ MORE: The 5 ATP players with the most Indian Wells titles, ft. Novak Djokovic, Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal

Nadal had not played for almost a year before Brisbane, having sustained a hip psoas muscle injury that required arthroscopic surgery at the 2023 Australian Open.

The fact the 22-time Grand Slam champion is still not ready to return from his latest physical issue is a worry, given it was only expected to be a minor setback. The Spaniard withdrew from the 2024 Australian Open after Brisbane, before also pulling out of the Qatar Open in Doha last month.

In a message posted on his social media accounts, Nadal delivered the news of another tough blow to his 2024 comeback plans.

“It is with great sadness that I have to withdraw from this amazing tournament. Everyone knows how much I love this place and how much I love to play here at Indian Wells,” the Mallorcan explained.

“That’s also one of the reasons why I came very early to the desert to practice and try to get ready. I have been working hard and practicing and you all know I took a test this weekend but I don’t find myself ready to play at the highest level at such an important event.

“It is not an easy decision, it’s a tough one as a matter of fact but I can’t lie to myself and lie to the thousands of fans. I will miss you all and I am sure the tournament will be a great success.”

Nadal will likely next aim to feature at the Monte Carlo Masters, which will begin on April 7.

READ MORE: Andre Agassi gives Rafael Nadal tactical advice as he shares retirement hope

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