Nadal pulls out of Monte Carlo Masters

Spanish veteran Rafael Nadal’s hopes of a comeback at the Monte Carlo Masters have been dashed as he has announced his withdrawal from the tournament, citing ongoing struggles with his body. 

The 37-year-old has faced a series of setbacks since his return at January’s Brisbane International following nearly a year-long injury layoff. A hip injury sustained during that return stint thwarted his plans for the Australian Open and has kept him sidelined ever since. So far, Nadal is yet to take part in any event this season, save for two matches in Brisbane, and it does not look like things will be changing any time soon as he struggles to get into form. 

Expressing his disappointment on social media on Thursday, the 22-time grand slam champion revealed the difficulty of facing yet another setback, especially with tournaments as significant as the Monte Carlo Masters. Despite his unwavering dedication to rehabilitation and readiness to compete, Nadal conceded that his body simply isn’t ready for the rigors of tournament play. 

He wrote: “Unfortunately, I have to tell you that I am not going to be playing in Monte Carlo. My body simply won’t allow me.

“Even if I am working hard and making the maximum effort every day with all the will to play and compete again at tournaments that have been very important for me, the truth is that I can’t play today. You have no idea how hard this is for me to not be able to play these events.”

Acknowledging the gravity of the situation, Nadal emphasized the importance of accepting reality and focusing on the immediate future with hopes of a recovery. However, the prospect of missing the start of the clay-court season, including the French Open, which is his favourite major event, in May, undoubtedly adds to his frustration. 

Such circumstances are not easy for anyone to deal with, but Nadal is not giving up hope yet, as he still looks forward to the day he will be back on the court. For now, he remains in recovery mode, making sure his body is in top condition to enable him to perform his best when he makes a comeback. 

Leon Osamor