French Open 2024: 3 reasons why Rafael Nadal might skip the tournament

Tennis star Rafael Nadal has been one of the most successful players in the history of the French Open, and the fans are extremely excited to witness him on the court before he announces his retirement. Notably, the Spanish-born player is the greatest player ever on clay, which shows his legacy. He has yet to lose a French Open final in his career, which showcases his magnificent skills on clay.

However, the star player has recently been suffering from some of the major problems that will make him miss the French Open in 2024. Speaking about the same subject, here are the three main points that make him miss the upcoming marquee event slated to take place from May 20 to June 9.

1. Injury Setbacks

The 22-time Grand Slam champion Rafael Nadal has been suffering from grave injuries for the last few months, which has ruled him out of the tournament. However, the fans are extremely ecstatic to witness him on the tennis court for the first time in the French Open, but his injuries can make him withdraw from the game. Notably, the 37-year-old legend publicly reveals that he aims to take part in the French Open, but he may pull out due to injury setbacks.

"If I arrive in Paris the way I feel today, I won't play. I'll play Roland Garros if I feel competitiveâ€æ It won't be the end of the world or the end of my career. I still have goals after Roland Garros, like the Olympics," Nadal, who confirmed his appearance in the Laver Cup in September said on Wednesday in Madrid.

2. Early Exit from Mutua Madrid Open 2024

Rafael Nadal suffered a heartbreak loss against Jiri Lehecka in round 16 of the Mutua Madrid Open 2024 and failed to enter the quarterfinals of the tournament. Notably, despite being the most successful player in the history of the Madrid Open, the star player bids an emotional farewell to the marquee event. Notably, this early exit from the tournament may allow him to pull out of the French Open in 2024.

"I'm happy. It was a very special week for me, very positive in every way. I was able to play again on a court that has given me a lot, also on an emotional level. It has been unforgettable, and I can only say 'thank you'. It has been an incredible journey. It's very difficult, but life and my body have been sending signals to me for a long time. I have been fortunate to turn my passion into my job. I am privileged," Rafael Nadal said in an on-court interview.

3. His playing style is affected

Notably, his high, heavy-spin forehand gives him the perfect weapon to target most opponents’ right-handed backhand with a cross-court shot. Having such a heavy weapon allows him to target that side more easily, while the clay court causes the ball to bounce high. However, it seems that he is struggling a lot with his form and is unable to showcase his forehand and backhand talent, making him lose the matches.