Not the news you want to see with the Australian Open only a week away!
Rafael Nadal has unfortunately pulled out of the Australian Open after suffering a muscle tear during his semi-final loss at the Brisbane International.
Making the announcement on X, Nadal said that in his current state, he would not be able to go the distance in five-set matches. Therefore, he will make the journey home to Spain to rest and recover.
“During my last match in Brisbane I had a small problem on a muscle that as you know made me worried,” he wrote.
“Once I got to Melbourne I had the chance to make an MRI and I had micro tear on a muscle, not in the same part where I had the injury and that’s good news.
“Right now I am not ready to compete at the maximum level of exigence in 5 sets of 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 about 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.”