Former world No. 1 John McEnroe has shared his thoughts on Rafael Nadal's recent withdrawal just a week before the 2024 Australian Open.
McEnroe suggested that the Spanish player might contemplate retirement if he is not physically well for the upcoming French Open. Nadal marked his return at the Brisbane International on January 2, ending a 12-month hiatus from the courts. He showcased an impressive performance, securing victories against Dominic Thiem (7-5, 6-1) and Jason Kubler (6-1, 6-2). However, in the quarterfinals, he missed a match point against Jordan Thompson and ultimately suffered a defeat with a scoreline of 7-5, 6-7, 3-6.
Hi all, during my last match in Brisbane I had a small problem on a muscle that as you know made me worried. 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…
Seven-time Grand Slam champion John McEnroe commented on ESPN that the Australian Open is a great opportunity to start the season and expressed his disappointment over Nadal's withdrawal before the tournament.
McEnroe stated, "I'm not even remotely comparing myself to Rafa, but in my mind, the few times I played Australia was to sort of get ready for the rest of the year. The timing was tough to seemingly be able to put all the chips on the table early on."
“Players have now accepted that the Australian Open has gotten closer in importance with Wimbledon and the US [Open]. When I was playing, the top guys didn’t even play. It’s come a long way,” he added.
“I think Rafa was hoping, ‘hopefully I’ll be ready for the French, see if my body holds up there.’ If it doesn’t, I think you’ll see him not play anymore. We’re all obviously hopeful he can because Rafa has been amazing for the game. We’d like to see him as long as we can.”
Recently, Nadal announced that he won't be in Melbourne for the first Grand Slam of the year and left the question open regarding his potential return, stating, "Right now, I am not ready to compete at the maximum level of exigence in five-set matches. I’m flying back to Spain to see my doctor, get some treatment, and rest."
