By Razeen Gutta
The historic 15-day Australian Open will kick off on Sunday, but without Rafael Nadal, who has suffered another injury setback after one year on the sidelines.
Nadal’s highly anticipated comeback has been stalled after a “micro tear on a muscle” one week after returning at the Brisbane International.
Two wins in Brisbane were followed by a medical timeout in his quarter-final defeat to Jordan Thompson after he felt pain in his left thigh.
“During my last match in Brisbane I had a small problem on a muscle that as you know made me worried,” the 37-year-old said on X.
“Once I got to Melbourne I have had the chance to make an MRI and I have 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 five-set matches. I’m flying back to Spain to see my doctor, get some treatment and rest.”
The 22-time Grand Slam champion has suffered many an injury in his record-breaking career; and now, one year after going off in the Australian Open, the latest edition will come too soon for his return.
For the first time ever the Australian Open will begin on a Sunday, 14 January, instead of a Monday, after data showed that matches have become longer in recent years.
The early start means that the competition will span 15 days, with late night finishes being minimised for both players and fans.
Pictured above: Rafael Nadal.
Image source: @rafaelnadal
