“I am not ready to compete,” Rafael Nadal pulls out of Doha with a heavy heart as he looks to bring his best on the American leg
Rafael Nadal is focused on playing hardcourt tournaments.
Rafael Nadal (Image via Imago)
Spanish tennis legend Rafael Nadal confirmed his absence from the Qatar Open on Thursday. The 37-year-old also apologized to the fans for not being able to participate in the tournament. Nadal furthermore thanked his fans in Qatar for their unwavering support whenever he played at the event. The Spaniard also talked about his focus on the American leg of the ATP Tour.
Nadal cited his fitness concerns as the reason for pulling out. The 37-year-old said that he will not be able to compete with his body still recovering. Nadal further talked about working on his fitness for the exhibition match in Las Vegas and the Indian Wells tournament scheduled after that.
I would have loved to play in Doha, where the tournament team, as well as the amazing Qatar fans, have always supported me greatly. Unfortunately, I am not ready to compete and I won’t be able to come to Doha where I really wanted to be and play again after that unforgettable win in 2014. I will focus on keep working to be ready for the exhibition in Las Vegas and the amazing Indian Wells tournament.Rafael Nadal posted on X.
Rafael Nadal’s struggles with injuries continue
Rafael Nadal has been struggling with injuries for a long time. The 37-year-old has had issues with his body and has suffered due to the same throughout his career. Now, as Nadal is in the twilight of his career, his body is struggling to cope with the physical requirements of the tour.
The Spaniard made a comeback in 2022 after being out of action for several months. Nadal won two Grand Slam titles and competed in a few high-profile tournaments. But his body again broke down and the 37-year-old pulled out after the 2023 Australian Open.
Nadal underwent surgery and tried to stage a comeback at the Brisbane International. The 22-time Grand Slam champion bowed out after a defeat in the third round. Nadal then pulled out of the Australian Open due to an injury and is still recovering. The 37-year-old has now pulled out of the Middle East leg of the tour.
Nadal is focused on playing hardcourt tournaments before he switches to clay and prepares for his favorite Grand Slam tournament.
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Ritesh Pathak
(2150 Articles Published)