Rafael Nadal is not participating in the Monte-Carlo Masters due to injury, raising fears that he may miss the French Open.
Nadal, a 22-time Grand Slam champion, missed nearly all of the 2023 season due to injury and surgery and injured himself again in only his third match back in January at the Brisbane International.
The 37-year-old has openly discussed retiring from tennis and had hoped to make this season a farewell tour to bid farewell to his fans.
Having sustained a new injury at the beginning of the year, Nadal skipped the Australian Open and then tried to come back in February but was not ready.
Nadal then aimed for Indian Wells in March – but withdrew less than 24 hours before his first match – and now has failed to return yet again in Monte-Carlo.
Nadal not participating in the clay-court event is a major concern ahead of the French Open – where he has won a record 14 men’s singles titles – with the second major tournament of the year starting in Paris in late May.
Hi all, these are very difficult moments for me in sports,’ Nadal posted on X. ‘Unfortunately I have to tell you that I am not going to be playing in Monte Carlo. My body simply won’t allow it.
‘And even though I am working hard [and] giving my all every day with the intention to play and compete again at tournaments that have been very important to me, the reality is that I can’t play today.
‘You have no idea how difficult it is for me to not be able to play these events.
‘The only thing I can do is to accept the situation and try to focus on the near future with the excitement and determination to play in order to give myself a chance for things to improve.
‘Thanks again to all, as always, for all the support and best wishes!’
Nadal indicated in December that he might retire before the 2024 season concludes.
‘There are many chances that it will be my last year without any doubt,’ Nadal said. ‘There are chances that it may only be half a year.’
