Three-time champion Rafael Nadal continues to postpone tennis return, out of Indian Wells: "I can't lie to myself"
ATP
Rafael Nadal has admitted that he is not ready to compete at the highest level after withdrawing from the 2024 Indian Wells Open (BNP Paribas Open) on Wednesday.
Nadal follows his compatriot, Paula Badosa out of the tournament who also announced her withdrawal hours prior. It continues the injury struggles for the 22-time Grand Slam champion who played the Netflix Slam, but looked to be struggling on his serve during practice. David Ferrer also supposedly said he'd suffered an injury in the run up. This after he also suffered a setback in trying to return to the Qatar Open.
In what is mooted to be his farewell year, Nadal is certainly not having his own way. He will now head into the clay court season likely at Monte-Carlo having played only a few matches all season. He lost to Jordan Thompson at the Brisbane International and suffered a micro tear in his thigh. Since then, he hasn't played and now concerns will mount for his clay court campaign.
"“It is with great sadness that I have to withdraw from this amazing tournament at Indian Wells,” Nadal wrote. “Everyone knows how much I love this place and how much I love to play here. 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,” Nadal continued. “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.”
Samuel GillEditor-in-Chief
Samuel Gill is the Chief Content Officer (CCO) of TennisUpToDate.com, a role he has held since 2020. He is responsible for editorial governance across the platform, including setting content standards, overseeing accuracy and consistency, and guiding long-term editorial strategy. Since joining, he has contributed more than 10,000 articles and editorial pieces across the TennisUpToDate network, playing a central role in the daily operation and development of the site.
Based in Leicester, Samuel has a broad background in tennis media. In his current role, he works closely with editors and writers to ensure coverage meets clear journalistic standards, with particular attention to verification, consistency, and timely updates when new information becomes available.
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