Rafael Nadal has insisted his latest injury setback is not a career-ender following his withdrawal from the first grand slam of the year.
Nadal, 37, announced with a heavy heart that he will not compete in Melbourne this year after picking up ‘a small problem’ during his defeat by Jordan Thompson in Brisbane on Friday night.
The Spaniard, who spent almost all of 2023 on the sidelines, had earmarked the 2024 season as a farewell tour, admitting before his withdrawal that there was a ‘high percentage’ it would be his last time playing in Australia.
But his latest statement, and previous comments to the media, has offered hope that he might one day feature at the Australian Open.
In his Twitter post, he said: ‘I really wanted to play here in Australia and I have had the chance to play a few matches that made me very happy and positive.
‘Thanks all for the support and see you soon! Rafa.’
Rafael Nadal has offered cause for optimism despite pulling out of the Australian Open
He says his injury is not as bad as first feared and fans hope he will return to Australia
Earlier this week, Nadal refused to confirm that 2024 would be the last time Aussies would see him in the flesh.
‘If I’m here next year, don’t tell me, ‘You said it’s going to be your last season,’ because I didn’t say it,’ Nadal told reporters.
He also stressed that there are positive signs despite being robbed of an appearance at Melbourne Park.
‘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,’ he said.
‘Within the sad news for me for not being able to play in front of the amazing Melbourne crowds, this is not very bad news and we all remain positive with the evolution for the season.’
Nick Kyrgios also withdrew from the tournament, citing a wrist injury, and was among a number of prominent figures to send a message of support to the Spaniard.
‘Feel for Rafa man,’ he said. ‘Get better soon, that was the fear for me as well, coming back a little too soon…’
