“Looks like I won’t play Australia”: Rafa Nadal jokes after hand surgery for severe osteoarthritis

Friday, 12 December 2025 at 18:04

Rafael Nadal underwent surgery on Thursday at Centro Médico Teknon in Barcelona to address a long-standing issue in his right hand. Though the 22-time Grand Slam champion has stepped away from the ATP Tour, the physical consequences of his legendary intensity continue to demand attention and care.

According to EFE, sources close to the former world No. 1 confirmed that the intervention was performed due to severe osteoarthritis of the trapeziometacarpal joint, the joint that connects the base of the thumb to the wrist, located between the trapezium and the first metacarpal. This area is fundamental for grip strength and stability—two elements that Nadal has relied on heavily throughout his career, particularly with his powerful topspin forehand.

The surgery was carried out under the supervision of Nadal’s long-time physician, Dr. Ángel Ruiz-Cotorro, together with Dr. Vilaró, and performed by Dr. Álex Lluch. The medical team opted for an arthroplasty, a procedure designed to alleviate pain and restore mobility to the damaged joint. Nadal had reportedly been dealing with discomfort in that area for years, even before his retirement.

In typical Nadal fashion, the Spaniard communicated the news to fans with humour and openness. “It looks like I won't be able to play the Australian Open in January,” he joked on social media. “I had to undergo surgery on my hand for a problem that I've been dragging along for a long time, but I hope to be well soon!”

A chronic condition rooted in intensity

Nadal’s diagnosis—severe osteoarthritis of the trapeziometacarpal joint—is consistent with what many medical specialists consider a natural consequence of extreme overuse. Over the course of his career, the Mallorcan’s playing style placed enormous strain on his hands and wrists. His trademark heavy topspin, among the most explosive in tennis history, subjects the thumb and its surrounding joints to significant stress.

Osteoarthritis in this region manifests through stiffness, pain, and reduced range of motion. For a retired athlete, the goal is often to maintain comfortable day-to-day function rather than restore peak performance. Still, Nadal’s proactive surgical approach suggests a commitment to long-term wellness, particularly as he continues to lead an active life through his academy, philanthropic projects, and personal pursuits.

Echoes of past injuries

Friday’s announcement also revived memories of Nadal’s numerous injury battles during his playing days. Before retiring in 2024, he weathered chronic knee issues, recurring abdominal tears, rib stress fractures, foot complications, and wrist discomfort—yet still put together one of the greatest résumés in tennis history.

Perhaps the most notorious of these setbacks was the Mueller-Weiss syndrome diagnosed when he was only 19. The degenerative condition in his foot led to periodic withdrawals throughout his career, including his absence from the 2021 US Open and the injections required before the 2022 Roland Garros. Despite that, he defied expectations by winning the French Open title that year, his 22nd Grand Slam title and 14th in Paris.

A new phase focused on health and family

Now, with a year of retirement behind him and a clearer focus on life beyond the tour, Nadal’s priorities have shifted. His humorous remark about not being ready for the Australian Open 2026 served as a reminder that he is no longer competing—but also that he remains connected to tennis culture and to the millions who follow him.

The operation marks another step in adapting to life after professional sport, one that involves caring for the body that carried him through 22 majors, countless battles, and a level of physical intensity rarely matched in tennis history. Nadal, now a father of two, will likely continue to balance rehabilitation with his commitments. He has already announced his trip to Jeddah in the coming days for the Next Gen ATP Finals, in his role as Ambassador for the Saudi Arabian Tennis Federation

Rafa Nadal

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Me parece que no podré jugar el @australianopen en enero 😂 He tenido que someterme a una intervención en la mano por un problema que venía arrastrando desde hace mucho tiempo, ¡pero espero estar bien pronto! 🤗 Looks like I won’t be able to play the @AustralianOpen 2026 😂 I

12:45 PM · Dec 12, 2025

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Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist

Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.

His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.

In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.

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