- Rafael Nadal confirmed participation in Barcelona Open.
- He missed several tournaments due to a hip injury recovery.
- This might be his last Barcelona Open.
The 37-year-old Nadal had to pull out from the Monte-Carlo Masters that just ended, causing a delay in his comeback just as the clay season, his preferred season, was about to start.
Earlier on Monday, it was revealed that Nadal would be holding a press conference. This led many to speculate that he might be pulling out from another tournament. However, contrary to these speculations, Nadal confirmed his participation in the Barcelona Open, marking his first tournament of the 2024 clay season.
“I came here a bit of a last-minute decision because I didn’t know if I was going to be able to play. Tomorrow I’ll be on the court,” Nadal stated.
Nadal has already missed several tournaments including the Australian Open and the Masters events in Indian Wells, Miami, and his favorite, Monte Carlo. Upon his arrival in Barcelona, he was uncertain about his fitness to play.
“I thought ‘can I or can’t I?’ It has been two difficult years. I’m coming from a major hip operation, which takes a while to recover from. Things happen in the body and I couldn’t follow the schedule I wanted. When you can’t, you can’t. Although it hurts me, it is what it is,” Nadal expressed.
“At this point in my career, I am in a different situation. For me, before regretting where I haven’t been able to be, for me, it is a gift to be in Barcelona. I take it as my last year and I want to enjoy every moment. I feel ready to play tomorrow. I don’t think about how I get there. I know what the situation is, that I am just preparing, but I am realistic. For me, being here is a joy.”
He then affirmed that this is likely to be his final appearance at the Barcelona Open, a tournament he has won a record 12 times. He has repeatedly mentioned in the past that 2024 will be his final season.
“I take this as my last participation at the Conde de Godó. I don’t know what will happen in the future, but I’m going to try to give myself my best chance. The week of training has been positive and I leave with the hope of doing my best,” Nadal confirmed.
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