Rafael Nadal withdrew from Indian Wells on Wednesday on the eve of his first-round match, saying he’s “not ready to play at the highest level”.
The Spaniard, 37, returned to competitors in Brisbane in January after virtually a yr sidelined with a hip flexor harm, however needed to miss the Australian Open with one other muscle tear.
He misplaced to Carlos Alcaraz in an exhibition occasion in Las Vegas on Sunday however appeared poised to attempt to win a fourth title within the California desert earlier than pulling out forward of his match towards Canadian Milos Raonic.
“It is with great sadness that I have to withdraw from this amazing tournament,” the 22-time Grand Slam champion mentioned in a press release.
“Everybody is aware of how a lot I like this place and the way a lot I like to play right here at Indian Wells.
“Thats additionally one of many the explanation why I got here very early to the desert to observe and attempt to prepare.
“I’ve been working laborious and training and also you all know I took a check this weekend however I dont discover myself able to play on the highest stage at such an necessary occasion.
“It is not an easy decision, its a tough one as a matter of fact but I cant 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.”
Nadal can be changed by fortunate loser Sumit Nagal, who would be the first Indian in the primary draw of an ATP Masters 1000 occasion since Prajnesh Gunneswaran at Miami in 2019.
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