'The time has come to make a decision...' - Rafael Nadal opens up on his participation in French Open 2024 after early exit from Rome

Tennis legend Rafael Nadal is still making plans to compete for a record-extending French Open title later this month after his early exit from the Italian Open 2024. Notably, Hubert Hurkacz defeated Nadal in the second round of the marquee event. Nadal has not been part of any tournament since the Australia Open in 2023, as he was forced to retire after his grave injuries.

However, Rafael Nadal has recently opened up about the physical issues he has been struggling with. The 37-year-old player revealed that he is even shocked by his loss, as he hasn't been in any major events in the past two years due to injuries.

“Tough day for me in all ways because I felt more ready than what I showed. I am a little bit more unpredictable today, not playing enough for the last two years. Too many doubts. The time has come to make a decision, in case I might not play Roland-Garros. If I have to say which side I lean towards, it's to try to play it and give my best," Nadal said after his Italian Open exit.

I am not 100% sure, probably 98% but I will not say 100% when it is not 100%: Rafael Nadal

Nadal has also talked about the possibility of playing at the French Open in 2024. The star player accepted that he may miss the event as he is not well prepared, but he still wants to give his best in the upcoming French Open 2024. Nadal also highlighted that he needs to make a quick decision about his participation in the next event. In addition, the Spaniard also admitted that this defeat could be his last appearance in Rome.

"Physically I have some issues, but probably not enough yet to say not playing in the most important event of my tennis career. I don’t know if this is going to be the last time I play here or not. There is much more chance that today is the last one, but I am not a guy that makes decisions in a hot moment, in tough moments. I am not 100% sure, probably 98% but I will not say 100% when it is not 100%," he added further.