Nadal Withdraws From BNP Paribas Open; Hip Injury Still Nagging

FILE – Rafael Nadal of Spain waves to the crowd in his match against Dominic Thiem of Austria during the Brisbane International tennis tournament in Brisbane, Australia, Tuesday, Jan. 2, 2024. Rafael Nadal pulled out of the BNP Paribas Open on Wednesday night, March 6, 2024, a day before he was supposed to play his first official match in two months. Nadal, a 22-time Grand Slam champion, posted the news on social media, writing that he was announcing the withdrawal “with great sadness.” (AP Photo/Tertius Pickard, File) used locally March 7th 2024 @ap.images

Rafael Nadal has withdrawn from the 2024 BNP Paribas Open.

He is replaced in the draw by Sumit Nagal.

Rafael Nadal: “It is with great sadness that I have to withdraw from this amazing tournament.

Everyone knows how much I love this place and how much I love to play here at Indian Wells.

That’s also one of the reasons why I came very early to the desert to practice and try to get ready. I have been working hard and practicing and you all know I took a test this weekend but I don’t find myself ready to play at the highest level at such an important event.

It is not an easy decision, it’s a tough one as a matter of fact but I can’t 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.”

“We are disappointed that Rafa is unable to play in the BNP Paribas Open, but we wish him continued healing and hope he can be back in action again soon,” said BNP Paribas Open Tournament Director Tommy Haas. “He is one of the all-time fan favorites here, and we hope to see him back in Indian Wells again in the future.”

Patrons who have purchased individual evening session tickets to Stadium 1 for Thursday, March 7 – directly from the BNP Paribas Open – may contact the box office regarding a refund.

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