Nadal casts doubt on French Open participation

Veteran Rafael Nadal has expressed uncertainty about his participation in the upcoming French Open, stating that he will only play at the tournament if he feels up to it. If he skips the event, this would be the second year in a row where he would miss it, as his absence last year was the first time in 19 years that he was not at Roland Garros. 

In a recent interview, the Spaniard admitted that he is not yet fully recovered from his injuries, saying, “If I was in Paris today, I wouldn’t go out to play.” However, he expressed his desire to compete in the Madrid Open this week, stating that it “means a lot” to him to play on the court where he has had many great moments.

Nadal made his latest comeback from injury at the Barcelona Open last week, winning his opening match before losing to Australian Alex de Minaur. He has only played five matches since January 2023 due to ongoing hip and abdominal injuries. 

The French Open, the second Grand Slam tournament of the year, is set to begin on May 26. Speaking about his plans to play at the tournament, Nadal remains uncertain about his participation, saying, “I’m going to do the things I have to do to be able to play in Paris. And if I can, I can, and if I can’t, I can’t. I’m going to Paris if I feel like I’m good enough. I’m going to Paris if I feel capable enough to compete.

Nadal’s participation in the tournament will depend on his progress in the coming weeks. Despite his uncertainty, he remains determined to enjoy his final moments on the court, saying, “At least I am playing, and I can enjoy again, especially in the tournaments that are so emotional for me. I’m able to enjoy the fun of that. I can probably say goodbye on the court.”

Earlier this year, the 14-time French Open champion hinted that he may retire at the end of this season, although it is still unsure if that would be the case now. 

Leon Osamor