Rafael Nadal has entered another battle - this time far from the roar of the crowds. The 22-time Major winner underwent surgery on Thursday at Barcelona's Teknon Clinic to treat severe osteoarthritis in the trapeziometacarpal joint on his right hand.
The procedure was led by his long-time doctor, Angel Ruiz Cotorro, assisted by Dr. Vilaroand performed by specialist Dr. Alex Lluch. The surgery came a couple of weeks after Rafa's return to the court following a one-year break.
The news comes as a symbolic moment. The Spaniard had picked up a racket again on November 19, exactly one year after playing his last official match at the 2024 Davis Cup Finals in Malaga.
Rafa entered the court with two WTA upcoming stars, enjoying light practice sessions and hoping for more of that in 2026. However, he will have to recover from the most recent setback soon.
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The resurfacing of chronic pain in his hand led him quickly from the court to the clinic.For the Spaniard, adversity is nothing new. His career has been a constant negotiation between greatness and the limits of the human body.
Rafa has been dealing with physical setbacks for over two decades. He overcame a severe foot issue in the early stage of his career and battled past more problems before his body let him down in 2023.
The legend injured his left hip at the Australian Open and embraced the most extended break of his incredible career. He made a couple of pushes in 2024, but his body refused to endure such demanding efforts.
The latest surgery reflects a familiar truth - Nadal continues to chose action, healing and effort over surrender. The Spaniard would love to embrace exhibition matches with Roger Federer and other great rivals in the future.
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While ensuring better quality of life in retirement, Rafa is still fighting and still moving forward. After all, it's the only acceptable path on his journey.
