Barbara Schett expresses disappointment about Rafael Nadal’s withdrawal from the Australian Open, saying, “It’s tough news.”
Barbara Schett, an expert with Eurosport, voiced her disappointment upon learning that Rafael Nadal had withdrawn from the Australian Open.
On Sunday morning, Rafael Nadal declared his withdrawal from the first Grand Slam of the year. The Spaniard’s hip problems had returned, particularly after losing to Jordan Thompson in the Brisbane quarterfinals. Despite this, Nadal acknowledged that his hip issue and his muscle strain are not the same.
Schett, who is now in Melbourne getting ready for her live coverage on Eurosport and discovery+ at this year’s Australian Open, was eating supper with her family when she received the news. 24hscore
“I was enjoying a lovely dinner with my family in Australia when I received the heartbreaking news that Rafael Nadal would have to withdraw from the Australian Open,” Schett remarked.
“We are aware that he faced some challenging matches in Brisbane and encountered issues with his injury. After undergoing an MRI, it revealed a micro tear in his muscle, the recurring old injury. In light of this, he doesn’t want to take any risks and has decided to return to Spain.
Regrettably, he won’t be participating in the Australian Open, which is disappointing for the fans eagerly anticipating his return. Tennis enthusiasts in Melbourne and the tournament itself will miss him. Considering this is his final year, it’s tough news.
We won’t witness him on the court at the Australian Open, but it’s understood that he prioritizes his fitness, particularly for the clay-court season and the Olympics. The decision is to ensure he’s in good health and ready to compete.
Despite the setback, Schett is confident that Nadal’s retirement won’t be marked by this injury, expecting him to play again. While he may not be present live at the Australian Open, Schett hopes to see him, at worst, during the French Open, either in person or on TV.
The news put a damper on Schett’s evening, even affecting her dessert plans. She expressed sadness about the situation.
Nick Kyrgios, who has triumphed over Nadal three times, particularly at Wimbledon in 2014, quickly shared his support for the Spaniard on social media. He empathized with Nadal’s situation and wished him a speedy recovery, relating it to his own concerns about returning too soon.”