Rafael Nadal has withdrawn from this year’s Barcelona Open stating he is not ready to return to action on the tennis court.
The 36-year-old Spaniard has been struggling with a hip injury that made him miss the ongoing Monte Carlo Masters.
Nadal has not featured in any tournament since he was defeated by Mackenzie McDonald in the second round of the Australian Open in January.
The 22-time Grand Slam winner also remains doubtful for the French Open in May, where he is the current holder.
“Barcelona is a special tournament for me, because it is my adopted club and because playing at home is always a unique feeling,” Nadal said in a Twitter post.
“I am still not ready and, therefore, I continue my preparation process for the return to competition.”
Barcelona es un torneo especial para mi, porque es mi club de adopción y porque jugar en casa es siempre una sensación única.
Aún no me encuentro preparado y sigo, por tanto, mi proceso de preparación para la vuelta a la competición. pic.twitter.com/ZbgTv20Fo3
— Rafa Nadal (@RafaelNadal) April 14, 2023
The Barcelona Open begins next Monday and runs until Sunday, April 23. Nadal is the most successful player in the tournament with 12 titles.
Carlos Alcaraz is the reigning champion after defeating fellow Spaniard and Barcelona resident Pablo Carreno Busta in last year’s final.
