As expected, Rafael Nadal has decided to skip Barcelona Open to delay his start to the clay-court season. Nadal suffered a stress fracture in his rib while playing the Indian Wells semifinal against compatriot Carlos Alcaraz. The Spaniard then admitted that he was having breathing issues while playing against Taylor Fritz in the final.

Subsequently, Nadal was ruled out for four to six weeks due to a rib injury. Thus, it has hampered his preparation for the clay-court season and he is expected to get back into action just before the Roland Garros.

Meanwhile, Nadal had a dream start to the season as he had a record of 20-0 before losing to Taylor Fritz. The veteran won three titles, including the all-important Australian Open title after beating Daniil Medvedev in the final in a thrilling five-setter. This was Nadal’s 21st Grand Slam title, which made him the most successful Men’s Tennis player in the history of the sport.

On the other hand, Nadal has an impeccable record on clay as he has won Roland Garros on 13 occasions. Nadal will be looking to clinch his record-breaking 14th title in Paris, which will be his 22nd Grand slam title.

Nadal’s team revealed the news when they released a statement to Reuters that read “Rafa has just been withdrawn from the entry list in Barcelona.

“We don’t know yet when he will be at his first tournament on clay this year. Hopefully, soon.”

Nadal had made a splendid comeback after recovering from a foot injury as well as Covid-19 in the 2022 season. The veteran will once again look to make a solid comeback after injury.

The French Open will begin on May 22 and Nadal will hope to fully recover before the big event.