Rafael Nadal Withdraws from 2024 Indian Wells; Isn't Ready to Play ...
Chris Unger/Getty Images
Rafael Nadal withdrew from the 2024 BNP Paribas Open on Wednesday, saying he is not yet ready to play "at the highest level" amid his continued recovery from injury issues.
I have been working hard and practicing and you all know I took a test this weekend but I don't find myself ready to play at the highest level at such an important event. <br>It is not an easy decision, it's a tough one as a matter of fact but I can't lie to myself and lie to the… <a href="https://t.co/JslDFANMW8">pic.twitter.com/JslDFANMW8</a>
Nadal was attempting to play in his first competitive tournament since January's Brisbane International. The 37-year-old has played in only one tournament since suffering a hip injury in the 2023 Australian Open.
"We are disappointed that Rafa is unable to play in the BNP Paribas Open, but we wish him continued healing and hope he can be back in action again soon," said BNP Paribas Open Tournament Director Tommy Haas. "He is one of the all-time fan favorites here, and we hope to see him back in Indian Wells again in the future."
Nadal was slated to face Milos Raonic in the first round. He was replaced in the draw by Sumit Nagal.
Nadal's absence has allowed Novak Djokovic to pass him on the all-time Grand Slams list. Djokovic now has 24 Slams to Nadal's 22.
Injuries have been a regular occurrence throughout Nadal's career, but it's fair to wonder if we're seeing the beginning of the end. Roger Federer had a similar inability to recover from injuries late in his career before his retirement, and he had a much smaller list of issues than Nadal.
Djokovic remains almost indestructible at the top of the sport as he approaches his 37th birthday, making him the last stalwart remaining from one of the greatest eras in tennis history.
