Rafael Nadal withdraws from Australian Open 2024 due to muscle tear

Spanish tennis sensation Rafael Nadal has announced his withdrawal from the Australian Open due to a "micro tear on a muscle."

This setback comes shortly after his return to the court following a year-long absence due to injury concerns.

Nadal revealed on X, "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."

Expressing his inability to compete at the desired level for extended matches, especially in a Grand Slam format, Nadal shared his decision to return to Spain for further medical evaluation, treatment, and rest.

The setback occurred following Nadal's recent participation in the Brisbane International, where his comeback bid ended in a hard-fought quarter-final clash against Australian Jordan Thompson. Despite a strong start, Nadal succumbed to fatigue during the 3-hour 25-minute match, ultimately losing 5-7, 7-6 (8/6), 6-3.

Thompson's impressive performance thwarted Nadal's hopes for a straight-sets victory. The Australian displayed resilience, saving multiple match points and capitalising on Nadal's errors to claim the second set.

During the third set, Nadal faced a break early on and sought a medical timeout at 1-4 down, receiving treatment for an apparent upper left thigh issue. Despite his effort to continue, Nadal couldn't recover the momentum, allowing Thompson to secure the win.