Rafael Nadal pulls out of 2024 Australian Open after injury setback

Rafael Nadal’s long-awaited comeback has already come to a halt.

The 37-year-old tennis legend announced Sunday he has withdrawn from the 2024 Australian Open after suffering a new muscle injury to his surgically repaired hip.

Nadal, the 22-time grand slam winner, had just returned at the Brisbane International for his first tournament in a year, losing to Jordan Thompson on Friday in the quarterfinals.

“Hi all, during my last match in Brisbane I had a small problem on a muscle that as you know made me worried. Once I got to Melbourne 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,” Nadal wrote on social media.

“Right now I am not ready to compete at the maximum level of exigence in 5 sets matches. I’m flying back to Spain to see my doctor, get some treatment and rest.

“I have worked very hard during the year for this comeback and as I always mentioned my goal is to be at my best level in 3 months.

“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.

“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!”

Nadal last played at the 2023 Australian Open, losing in the second round a year after he won the title at Melbourne Park.

He ended up undergoing hip surgery in June to repair an injured tendon.

Nadal said in May that 2024 was likely going to be his final year playing competitive tennis.

The 2024 Australian Open starts next week.