Rafael Nadal Withdraws From 2024 BNP Paribas Open In Indian Wells
INDIAN WELLS, CA — Tennis extraordinaire Rafael Nadal of Spain has withdrawn from the 2024 BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells, it was announced Wednesday evening.
“It is with great sadness that I have to withdraw from this amazing tournament,” the 22-time Grand Slam champion said. “Everyone knows how much I love this place and how much I love to play here at Indian Wells. That’s also one of the reasons why I came very early to the desert to practice and try to get ready. 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. 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 thousands of fans. I will miss you all and I am sure the tournament will be a great success.”
The weekend “test” was an exhibition match in Las Vegas against another Spanish Grand Slam champion, Carlos Alcaraz. Nadal fell to the young superstar in straight sets.
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Nadal came to the California desert to play but decided to pull the plug following on-court practice.
Thirty-seven-year-old Nadal has nursed recurring injuries and has hinted that 2024 could be the end of his long pro-tennis career. He has been largely absent from the ATP Tour for a year. He played Australia’s Brisbane International in early January, making it to the quarterfinals before losing to the home country’s Jordan Thompson in a tight three-setter. The tourney was Nadal’s first on-court appearance since the 2023 Australian Open left him sidelined with a hip flexor injury that ultimately required surgery.
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The mild-mannered lefty, known for his grinding, relentless style of play and good sportsmanship, has worn down competitors since he turned pro in 2001. Dubbed the “King of Clay,” Nadal has especially dominated on the dirt, including the French Open which he won a record 14 times.
Nadal was scheduled to play his first BNP Paribas Open match of 2024 on Thursday against Canada’s Milos Raonic. The Round of 128 contest was set for Stadium 1 at the Indian Wells Tennis Garden. Nadal will be replaced by lucky loser Sumit Nagal of India.
The Spanish champ is such a big-name draw that tournament officials announced patrons who purchased individual March 7 evening session tickets to Stadium 1 (directly from the BNP Paribas Open) can contact the venue’s box office regarding a refund.
“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.”
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