Rafael Nadal stirred the tennis world for a moment on Friday. The 22-time Major winner posted a message that looked, at first glance, like another injury update from his playing days.
The Spaniard shared a photo of himself with his bandaged right hand in a sling. He joked about skipping the upcoming Australian Open and informed his fans about his recent right-hand surgery addressing a chronic issue.
The King of clay, who retired from tennis in November last year, underwent surgery in Barcelona to treat severe osteoarthritis in the trapeziometacarpal joint that had been bothering him for a while.
As usual in Rafa's case, Dr. Angel Ruiz Cotorro underwent surgery at the Teknon Clinic, assisted by Dr. Vilaro and Dr. Alex Lluch. The light-hearted message brought relief to Nadal's supporters.
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The 39-year-old retired from tennis at last year's Davis Cup Finals in Malaga. The 22-time Major winner stayed away from the court that gave him so much for 12 months.
Surprisingly, he made a return at his Rafa Nadal Academy after exactly a year, training last month with the two rising WTA stars and enjoying the thrills and emotions after such an extended break.
Speaking of the Australian Open, Rafa conquered it in 2022 in an incredible fashion following one of his most remarkable comebacksever. However, the veteran experienced a massive setback in Melbourne a year later.
He injured his left hip in the second round and missed the rest of the season, embracing the most extended break of his career. Eager to end his tennis journey on his terms, Nadal made a comeback in 2024.
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He started in Brisbane and withdrew from the Australian Open due to more hip issues. The legend foughtwell during the clay season and reached his last ATP final in Bastad.
However, it was not enough to keep him motivated, suffering early losses and struggling physically after his body refused to endure all those efforts. Ultimately, Rafa ended his career in front of the home fans in Malaga.
After his recent flashes on the practice court, we will likely see the 22-time Major winner in action again next year, but only after his right hand fully recovers.
"Looks like I will not be able to play the 2026 Australian Open. I had to undergo hand surgery because of an issue I had been dealing with for a long time, but I hope to be fine soon!" Rafael Nadal wrote.
