The Australian Open has already started, and one of the game's top players has already bowed out. Rafael Nadal, the Spanish legend, was set to participate in the annual tournament. Nadal was looking to add another trophy to his already impressive collection. However, just after the start of the tournament, it was announced that Nadal has dropped out of the tournament, per Andy Katz.

“BREAKING NEWS 🚨 Rafael Nadal announced he has withdrawn from the 2024 #AusOpen due to a micro tear on a muscle.”

Nadal himself elaborated on the issue that's been plaguing. As it turns out, this micro-tear/injury has been bothering the Spaniard even before the Australian Open. Rafael Nadal talked about his injury on a lengthy post on his Instagram account.

Rafael Nadal: “Hi all, during my last match in Brisbane I had a small problem on a muscle that as you know made me worried. Once I got to Melbourne I have had the chance to make an MRI and I have micro tear on a muscle, not in the same part where I had the injury and that’s good news. Right now I am not ready to compete at the maximum level of exigence in 5 sets matches. Therefore I m flying back to Spain to see my doctor, get some treatment and rest.”

Due to the injury, Rafael Nadal will not be participating in the Australian Open. It's such a shame, since many of the top stars today will be playing, That includes one of his successors in the Spanish pro scene in Carlos Alcaraz. We wish Nadal a speedy recovery.