Former tennis world number one Rafa Nadal will return at the Brisbane International warm up event for the Australian Open in January, the Spaniard said on Friday. 
The 22-time Grand Slam champion has not played a competitive match since bowing out in the second round of this year's Australian Open when hampered by a hip flexor problem.

Nadal was initially expected to miss just eight weeks but underwent surgery on a hip muscle in June.

"After a year away from competition, it's time to come back," Nadal, who won the Australian Open in 2009 and 2022, said in a video posted to social media. 
"It will be in Brisbane, the first week of January. I'll see you there."

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Last month, Australian Open tournament director Craig Tiley confirmed that Nadal would be participating in the year's first Grand Slam.

Nadal has said he expects to retire after the 2024 season, with a series of injuries limiting his appearances on Tour.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/golf-min-woo-lee-leads-at-australian-open-sets-eyes-on-successive-dp-world-tour-titles-665068">Golf: Min Woo Lee leads at Australian Open, sets eyes on successive DP World Tour titles</a>

He dropped out of the top 100 for the first time in 20 years earlier in the season and has slipped to number 633 in the world but is eligible for a protected ranking having been injured and not competing in any event for at least six months.

Nadal has previously expressed a desire to play one more French Open and represent Spain at the Paris Olympics next year before retiring at the end of his 23rd season on the tour.

The Brisbane tournament, which is returning after a three-year hiatus forced initially by the COVID pandemic, will run from Dec. 31 to Jan. 7.

The Australian Open takes place at Melbourne Park from Jan. 14-28.

Nadal's last Australian Open victory came in 2022 when he beat Russia's Daniil Medvedev and became the first man in the Open era to come back from two sets down in the final to win.

Former tennis world number one Rafa Nadal will return at the Brisbane International warm up event for the Australian Open in January, the Spaniard said on Friday.

Former tennis world number one Rafa Nadal will return at the Brisbane International warm up event for the Australian Open in January, the Spaniard said on Friday. The 22-time Grand Slam champion has not played a competitive match since bowing out in the second round of this year's Australian Open when hampered by a hip flexor problem. Nadal was initially expected to miss just eight weeks but underwent surgery on a hip muscle in June. "After a year away from competition, it's time to come back," Nadal, who won the Australian Open in 2009 and 2022, said in a video posted to social media. "It will be in Brisbane, the first week of January. I'll see you there." 🎧👀💪🏻😉 pic.twitter.com/iH7NvsQGMT — Rafa Nadal (@RafaelNadal) December 1, 2023 × Last month, Australian Open tournament director Craig Tiley confirmed that Nadal would be participating in the year's first Grand Slam. Nadal has said he expects to retire after the 2024 season, with a series of injuries limiting his appearances on Tour. ALSO READ: Golf: Min Woo Lee leads at Australian Open, sets eyes on successive DP World Tour titles He dropped out of the top 100 for the first time in 20 years earlier in the season and has slipped to number 633 in the world but is eligible for a protected ranking having been injured and not competing in any event for at least six months. Nadal has previously expressed a desire to play one more French Open and represent Spain at the Paris Olympics next year before retiring at the end of his 23rd season on the tour. The Brisbane tournament, which is returning after a three-year hiatus forced initially by the COVID pandemic, will run from Dec. 31 to Jan. 7. The Australian Open takes place at Melbourne Park from Jan. 14-28. Nadal's last Australian Open victory came in 2022 when he beat Russia's Daniil Medvedev and became the first man in the Open era to come back from two sets down in the final to win.

Tennis legend Rafael Nadal announces return date following lengthy injury layoff

Australian&nbsp;Open&nbsp;chief&nbsp;Craig Tiley said he remains confident that Rafael Nadal&nbsp;would be at&nbsp;Melbourne&nbsp;Park in January despite the 37-year-old's struggles with injuries over the last couple of years. Nadal, who won two of his 22 major singles titles in&nbsp;Melbourne, has not played a competitive match since bowing out in the second round of this year's edition of the Grand Slam when hampered by a hip flexor problem.

"Rafael has been training, I follow him closely, probably every day, because he's a massive drawcard for us," Tiley told reporters in&nbsp;Melbourne&nbsp;on Thursday. "He wants to play, he's obviously planning on playing. It all depends on how he pulls up."

"Hopefully in the next week or the next two weeks, ﻿we get some specific confirmation of that. I'm certain Rafael will be here because he's not going to want to miss the opportunity to repeat what he did a couple of years ago." In the 2022 final against Daniil Medvedev,&nbsp;Nadal&nbsp; became the first man in the&nbsp;Open&nbsp;era to come&nbsp;back&nbsp;from two sets down to win the title.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/global-warming-threatens-winter-olympics-future-organisers-soften-demand-in-order-to-retain-potential-hosts-664681">Global warming threatens Winter Olympics future, organisers soften demand in order to retain potential hosts</a>

Nadal&nbsp;has expressed a desire to play one more French&nbsp;Open&nbsp;and represent Spain at the Paris Olympics next year before retiring at the end of his 23rd season on the tour. His team is yet to reveal any plans for his return to the court, however, and&nbsp;Nadal&nbsp;said last week in Barcelona that he was unsure about the timeline.

"I have been able to train a little bit more, the progress seems pretty good," he said. "I don't know when I will be&nbsp;back&nbsp;playing, for sure it is closer than the last time I spoke to the media. If you want me to tell you when I'm returning, I'm not going to do it because I don't know when it is going to be."

Tiley was less bullish than he has been in the past about the prospect of local drawcard Nick Kyrgios taking part in his home Grand Slam. Kyrgios has struggled with knee and wrist injuries since pulling out of last year's&nbsp;Australian&nbsp;Open&nbsp;at the 11th hour and has played only one tour match since the Japan&nbsp;Open&nbsp;in October 2022.

"We have spoken to Nick, and he obviously wants to do the best he possibly can to give him the best chance to play in January﻿," Tiley said of the 2022 Wimbledon finalist. "Whether he's playing, whether he's doing something else, Nick will be here in January and to get him to play will be great. But we've got to take it as it comes&nbsp;and he's got to make sure he takes care of his health..."

Australian Open chief Craig Tiley said he remains confident that Rafael Nadal would be at Melbourne Park in January despite the 37-year-old's struggles with injuries over the last couple of years.

Australian Open chief Craig Tiley said he remains confident that Rafael Nadal would be at Melbourne Park in January despite the 37-year-old's struggles with injuries over the last couple of years. Nadal, who won two of his 22 major singles titles in Melbourne, has not played a competitive match since bowing out in the second round of this year's edition of the Grand Slam when hampered by a hip flexor problem. "Rafael has been training, I follow him closely, probably every day, because he's a massive drawcard for us," Tiley told reporters in Melbourne on Thursday. "He wants to play, he's obviously planning on playing. It all depends on how he pulls up." "Hopefully in the next week or the next two weeks, ﻿we get some specific confirmation of that. I'm certain Rafael will be here because he's not going to want to miss the opportunity to repeat what he did a couple of years ago." In the 2022 final against Daniil Medvedev, Nadal became the first man in the Open era to come back from two sets down to win the title. Also Read: Global warming threatens Winter Olympics future, organisers soften demand in order to retain potential hosts Nadal has expressed a desire to play one more French Open and represent Spain at the Paris Olympics next year before retiring at the end of his 23rd season on the tour. His team is yet to reveal any plans for his return to the court, however, and Nadal said last week in Barcelona that he was unsure about the timeline. "I have been able to train a little bit more, the progress seems pretty good," he said. "I don't know when I will be back playing, for sure it is closer than the last time I spoke to the media. If you want me to tell you when I'm returning, I'm not going to do it because I don't know when it is going to be." Tiley was less bullish than he has been in the past about the prospect of local drawcard Nick Kyrgios taking part in his home Grand Slam. Kyrgios has struggled with knee and wrist injuries since pulling out of last year's Australian Open at the 11th hour and has played only one tour match since the Japan Open in October 2022. "We have spoken to Nick, and he obviously wants to do the best he possibly can to give him the best chance to play in January﻿," Tiley said of the 2022 Wimbledon finalist. "Whether he's playing, whether he's doing something else, Nick will be here in January and to get him to play will be great. But we've got to take it as it comes and he's got to make sure he takes care of his health..."

Tennis: Craig Tiley remains confident of Rafael Nadal's return for Australian Open

Twenty-two-Grand Slam winner Rafael Nadal has lauded his arch-rival Novak Djokovic. Djokovic has had a stellar run in 2023, having won the Australian Open, French Open and the US Open. With his triumph at the US Open, he achieved his 24th Grand Slam title to come at par with&nbsp;Margaret Court for the most Majors won in both men’s and women’s tennis. Thus, Nadal feels Djokovic could've been more frustrated without the&nbsp;Grand Slam record as he 'lives more intensely' and that is why he is the best.&nbsp;

Speaking to Moviestar Plus, Nadal -- who has been out of action for quite some time due to injury issues -- said, "I'm not frustrated for a simple reason. I believe that, within my means, I have done everything possible to ensure that things go as smoothly as possible for me. Novak could be frustrated because he lives everything more intensely and that's why he's the best."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-britain-edge-past-france-in-a-thriller-to-reach-davis-cup-quarters-637148">Tennis: Britain edge past France in a thriller to reach Davis Cup quarters</a>

<h2>PARIS 2024 TO BE NADAL'S LAST APPEARANCE?</h2>

Talking about Nadal, the former world number one has been away from action for a long time due to injury woes. In May, the Spaniard announced that he would be unable to defend his Roland Garros title and has been away from the court due to a persistent hip injury. In June, the 37-year-old underwent arthroscopic surgery on his injured left hip flexor and it isn't clear when will he return to the court. During the same interaction, Nadal pointed out how he has missed several competitions due to fitness issues and believes the Paris Olympics, to be held next year, will be a nice end to his illustrious career.

In this regard, Nadal opined, "I have been one of the most inactive players on the circuit for many years. I've missed four and a half years of Grand Slams. That's what the sport is all about. Djokovic is also more successful because he has had a level of fitness/physique that has allowed him to play more than me."

“I would like to play again, to be competitive. But I'm not expecting to come back and win Roland Garros or Australia, so that people are not disoriented. The 2024 Olympics in Paris would be a nice end to my career if I feel good. My schedule can change if I feel I have a chance to win at Roland Garros,” Nadal added.

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Twenty-two-Grand Slam winner Rafael Nadal has lauded his arch-rival Novak Djokovic. Djokovic has had a stellar run in 2023, having won the Australian Open, French Open and the US Open.

Twenty-two-Grand Slam winner Rafael Nadal has lauded his arch-rival Novak Djokovic. Djokovic has had a stellar run in 2023, having won the Australian Open, French Open and the US Open. With his triumph at the US Open, he achieved his 24th Grand Slam title to come at par with Margaret Court for the most Majors won in both men’s and women’s tennis. Thus, Nadal feels Djokovic could've been more frustrated without the Grand Slam record as he 'lives more intensely' and that is why he is the best. Speaking to Moviestar Plus, Nadal -- who has been out of action for quite some time due to injury issues -- said, "I'm not frustrated for a simple reason. I believe that, within my means, I have done everything possible to ensure that things go as smoothly as possible for me. Novak could be frustrated because he lives everything more intensely and that's why he's the best." Also read: Tennis: Britain edge past France in a thriller to reach Davis Cup quarters PARIS 2024 TO BE NADAL'S LAST APPEARANCE? Talking about Nadal, the former world number one has been away from action for a long time due to injury woes. In May, the Spaniard announced that he would be unable to defend his Roland Garros title and has been away from the court due to a persistent hip injury. In June, the 37-year-old underwent arthroscopic surgery on his injured left hip flexor and it isn't clear when will he return to the court. During the same interaction, Nadal pointed out how he has missed several competitions due to fitness issues and believes the Paris Olympics, to be held next year, will be a nice end to his illustrious career. In this regard, Nadal opined, "I have been one of the most inactive players on the circuit for many years. I've missed four and a half years of Grand Slams. That's what the sport is all about. Djokovic is also more successful because he has had a level of fitness/physique that has allowed him to play more than me." “I would like to play again, to be competitive. But I'm not expecting to come back and win Roland Garros or Australia, so that people are not disoriented. The 2024 Olympics in Paris would be a nice end to my career if I feel good. My schedule can change if I feel I have a chance to win at Roland Garros,” Nadal added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Nadal reveals why Djokovic is the best, feels he could've been 'frustrated' without Grand Slam record

Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo are two of the greatest footballers of all time and have won the top individual prize in domestic football, Ballon d’Or, several times. Since making their respective debuts in the early 2000s, Messi and Ronaldo achieved unbelievable success and won everything that was there to win at the top level. While fans of the two players continue to argue over who is the greatest of them, tennis legend Rafael Nadal has revealed his favourite.&nbsp;

Currently on vacation as he continues to recover from arthroscopic surgery for a left hip flexor injury, Nadal, while strolling down the street, came across a group of fans who asked him an impromptu question – who is better between the two footballers? Nadal, who looked in a hurry, said he feels Messi is better but that he is a Real Madrid fan.

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Rafa Nadal: “Messi or Ronaldo? Messi is better, but I’m a Real Madrid fan.”🗣️🇪🇸 
 
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— All About Argentina 🛎🇦🇷 (@AlbicelesteTalk) <a href="https://twitter.com/AlbicelesteTalk/status/1683066667507630080?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 23, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Earlier this year, Nadal announced he won't compete in any Grand Slam in 2023 owing to his long-standing fight with injuries. He underwent surgery in Barcelona on the eve of his birthday and will likely take five months to recover.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/womens-world-cup-italys-cristiana-girelli-comes-off-bench-to-score-87th-minute-winner-against-argentina-618878">Women's World Cup: Italy's Cristiana Girelli comes off bench to score 87th minute winner against Argentina</a>

While he led the Slam tally (22) at one point, Novak Djokovic’s purple patch lately saw him surpass the French Open King with 23 Grand Slam titles. The Serbian recently came close to winning his record 24th title at Wimbledon but fell shy of his target against world number one Spain’s Carlos Alcaraz.

<h2>MLS’ Inter Miami welcomes Messi</h2>

Lionel Messi&nbsp;left his first major club FC Barcelona in 2021 owing to LA Liga rules around salary caps and joined French club Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) on a two-year deal. Following the fallout with PSG over his unauthorised trip to Saudi for commercial commitment around April this year, Messi decided to leave them.

When the summer transfer window opened, Major League Soccer (MLS) side Inter Miami announced Messi’s signing, stunning everyone, with several reports suggesting Messi was keen on returning to Camp Nou for his final European run.&nbsp;

While that didn’t happen, Messi made his MLS debut last Friday against Cruz Azul. He came off the bench to score a 94th-minute winner in the Leagues Cup opener.

<h3>Ronaldo’s Al Nassr bringing more European stars on board</h3>

On the other hand, Cristiano Ronaldo, who moved to Saudi Arabia following a fallout with Manchester United manager Eric Ten Hag during the World Cup, is enjoying his time at Al Nassr - a Saudi Pro League side, that now has bagged services of several top European League players like Seko Fofana and Alex Telles.

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Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo are two of the greatest footballers of all time and have won the top individual prize in domestic football, Ballon d’Or, several times.

Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo are two of the greatest footballers of all time and have won the top individual prize in domestic football, Ballon d’Or, several times. Since making their respective debuts in the early 2000s, Messi and Ronaldo achieved unbelievable success and won everything that was there to win at the top level. While fans of the two players continue to argue over who is the greatest of them, tennis legend Rafael Nadal has revealed his favourite. Currently on vacation as he continues to recover from arthroscopic surgery for a left hip flexor injury, Nadal, while strolling down the street, came across a group of fans who asked him an impromptu question – who is better between the two footballers? Nadal, who looked in a hurry, said he feels Messi is better but that he is a Real Madrid fan. WATCH THE VIDEO HERE – Rafa Nadal: “Messi or Ronaldo? Messi is better, but I’m a Real Madrid fan.”🗣️🇪🇸 pic.twitter.com/0n4bfmjWKY — All About Argentina 🛎🇦🇷 (@AlbicelesteTalk) July 23, 2023 × Earlier this year, Nadal announced he won't compete in any Grand Slam in 2023 owing to his long-standing fight with injuries. He underwent surgery in Barcelona on the eve of his birthday and will likely take five months to recover. ALSO READ: Women's World Cup: Italy's Cristiana Girelli comes off bench to score 87th minute winner against Argentina While he led the Slam tally (22) at one point, Novak Djokovic’s purple patch lately saw him surpass the French Open King with 23 Grand Slam titles. The Serbian recently came close to winning his record 24th title at Wimbledon but fell shy of his target against world number one Spain’s Carlos Alcaraz. MLS’ Inter Miami welcomes Messi Lionel Messi left his first major club FC Barcelona in 2021 owing to LA Liga rules around salary caps and joined French club Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) on a two-year deal. Following the fallout with PSG over his unauthorised trip to Saudi for commercial commitment around April this year, Messi decided to leave them. When the summer transfer window opened, Major League Soccer (MLS) side Inter Miami announced Messi’s signing, stunning everyone, with several reports suggesting Messi was keen on returning to Camp Nou for his final European run. While that didn’t happen, Messi made his MLS debut last Friday against Cruz Azul. He came off the bench to score a 94th-minute winner in the Leagues Cup opener. Ronaldo’s Al Nassr bringing more European stars on board On the other hand, Cristiano Ronaldo, who moved to Saudi Arabia following a fallout with Manchester United manager Eric Ten Hag during the World Cup, is enjoying his time at Al Nassr - a Saudi Pro League side, that now has bagged services of several top European League players like Seko Fofana and Alex Telles. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Rafael Nadal settles GOAT debate between Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, reveals his favourite - WATCH

Daniil Medvedev has no doubt that Novak Djokovic is the greatest tennis player in history and the world number three believes the Serbian's ability to conjure up victories even on his bad days sets him apart from the rest.

Djokovic claimed a men's record 23rd Grand Slam title at the French Open last month to leapfrog Rafa Nadal and go three ahead of another great rival in Roger Federer, with the 36-year-old eyeing an eighth crown at Wimbledon which begins on Monday.

Victory in London will leave Djokovic level with Margaret Court on 24 major titles atop the all-time list.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-whoever-i-get-to-face-it-doesnt-make-a-difference-novak-djokovic-on-defending-wimbledon-crown-610954">Tennis: 'Whoever I get to face, it doesn't make a difference...': Novak Djokovic on defending Wimbledon crown</a>

"I don't know how does he do it," Medvedev told reporters. "I think if I saw it right, Novak is almost 50%. I think I saw he played 70 majors and 35 (34) he was in the final. I don't know how it is possible. He doesn't have bad days?

"Actually, he does, like everybody. Even on these bad days, he manages to beat the opponent. It's actually tough because it's one against one. Both of them want to win.

"I don't know how he's doing it. That's why he's for me the greatest in the history of tennis. But this is basically, of course, debatable."

<h2>'I want continue playing against him...'</h2>

Having also won the Australian Open at the start of the year, Djokovic is looking to keep alive his hopes of a calendar year Grand Slam - winning all four majors in a single year.

Medvedev famously beat Djokovic in the 2021 U.S. Open final to deny the world number two the feat at the final hurdle.

"To be able to beat him when he was going for a Grand Slam, maybe he was a little bit tighter than usual, but I played an amazing match," Medvedev said. "This gives me even more pride that I was able to do it, given what he continued to do after this.

"I'm just happy I was able to do it. I don't want to stop. I want to try to continue to play against him again in finals, or against anyone else. That's what I didn't manage to do since some time."

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Daniil Medvedev has no doubt that Novak Djokovic is the greatest tennis player in history and the world number three believes the Serbian's ability to conjure up victories even on his bad days sets him apart from the rest.

Daniil Medvedev has no doubt that Novak Djokovic is the greatest tennis player in history and the world number three believes the Serbian's ability to conjure up victories even on his bad days sets him apart from the rest. Djokovic claimed a men's record 23rd Grand Slam title at the French Open last month to leapfrog Rafa Nadal and go three ahead of another great rival in Roger Federer, with the 36-year-old eyeing an eighth crown at Wimbledon which begins on Monday. Victory in London will leave Djokovic level with Margaret Court on 24 major titles atop the all-time list. ALSO READ: Tennis: 'Whoever I get to face, it doesn't make a difference...': Novak Djokovic on defending Wimbledon crown "I don't know how does he do it," Medvedev told reporters. "I think if I saw it right, Novak is almost 50%. I think I saw he played 70 majors and 35 (34) he was in the final. I don't know how it is possible. He doesn't have bad days? "Actually, he does, like everybody. Even on these bad days, he manages to beat the opponent. It's actually tough because it's one against one. Both of them want to win. "I don't know how he's doing it. That's why he's for me the greatest in the history of tennis. But this is basically, of course, debatable." 'I want continue playing against him...' Having also won the Australian Open at the start of the year, Djokovic is looking to keep alive his hopes of a calendar year Grand Slam - winning all four majors in a single year. Medvedev famously beat Djokovic in the 2021 U.S. Open final to deny the world number two the feat at the final hurdle. "To be able to beat him when he was going for a Grand Slam, maybe he was a little bit tighter than usual, but I played an amazing match," Medvedev said. "This gives me even more pride that I was able to do it, given what he continued to do after this. "I'm just happy I was able to do it. I don't want to stop. I want to try to continue to play against him again in finals, or against anyone else. That's what I didn't manage to do since some time." WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Wimbledon: 'For me he is the greatest in history of Tennis': Daniil Medvedev hails Slams leader Novak Djokovic

Carlos Alcaraz's astonishing rise to the top of men's tennis is a sporting miracle, according to one player perfectly placed to run the rule over the Spanish phenomenon ahead of Wimbledon. Veteran Feliciano Lopez watched the rise to greatness of fellow Spaniard Rafa Nadal at close quarters.

Nadal, the currently-injured 22-time Grand Slam champion, is in the final throws of his illustrious career, but with impeccable timing, Spain has produced a player who has already shown himself capable of filling the void.

The 20-year-old Alcaraz won the Queen's Club grass-court title in scintillating fashion last week in what was only his third event on the surface -- moving the reigning U.S. Open champion back to the top of the ATP rankings. He will be seeded number one at Wimbledon and while Lopez still regards reigning champion Novak Djokovic as the favourite, he believes with Alcaraz anything is possible.

"I call him a miracle," three-time Wimbledon quarter-finalist Lopez told Reuters at his farewell event in Mallorca this week. "Spain is not a big powerful tennis country compared to others and it's crazy to see one great like Rafa about to end his career and then this kid from Murcia arrived.

"Winning a Grand Slam aged 19, being world number one. It's astonishing."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-players-face-mental-torture-at-wimbledon-says-sports-psychologist-610741">Tennis - Players face 'mental torture' at Wimbledon, says sports psychologist</a>

Even Nadal took a while to adjust his clay court game to grass before winning the title in 2008 and 2010.

If anything, Alcaraz's style is more suited to the lawns. He has a natural sliced backhand when required, volleys confidently, can launch huge serves and as for his forehand, it will leave burn marks on the hallowed Wimbledon lawns.

Alcaraz said the biggest challenge was learning to move on grass, but he erased those worries at Queen's, winning 10 successive sets and saying he already felt like he had been playing on the surface for 10 years.

He reached the fourth round on his debut last year, losing to Jannick Sinner, but it would be a major surprise if he did not go well past that stage this year.

<h2>'Carlos will win the Wimbledon'</h2>

"I think he has the skills to be a great grass court player. He has great hands and moves really good and the movement on the grass is key. Not many players move the way he moves," Lopez added. "Before Queen's he had played only six matches on grass but he's so gifted and the gifted players can adjust quickly than the rest of the human beings."

Lopez believes Alcaraz's fearless approach will serve him well at Wimbledon.

"Of course, he will have nerves, as we saw in the French against Djokovic. But he has the ability, like the truly great players, to survive and find a way. It's not only his tennis and his physical strength, but he's brave enough to challenge the best players in the game at such a young age."

While Lopez is not entirely surprised by Alcaraz's fast transition to grass, others are.

"I never thought that Carlos Alcaraz was going to be able to get used to grass so fast," seven-time Grand Slam champions Mats Wilander told Eurosport. "For him to get this equation right seems incredible to me.

"To me, Alcaraz has already shown that he can win Wimbledon."

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Carlos Alcaraz's astonishing rise to the top of men's tennis is a sporting miracle, according to one player perfectly placed to run the rule over the Spanish phenomenon ahead of Wimbledon.

Carlos Alcaraz's astonishing rise to the top of men's tennis is a sporting miracle, according to one player perfectly placed to run the rule over the Spanish phenomenon ahead of Wimbledon. Veteran Feliciano Lopez watched the rise to greatness of fellow Spaniard Rafa Nadal at close quarters. Nadal, the currently-injured 22-time Grand Slam champion, is in the final throws of his illustrious career, but with impeccable timing, Spain has produced a player who has already shown himself capable of filling the void. The 20-year-old Alcaraz won the Queen's Club grass-court title in scintillating fashion last week in what was only his third event on the surface -- moving the reigning U.S. Open champion back to the top of the ATP rankings. He will be seeded number one at Wimbledon and while Lopez still regards reigning champion Novak Djokovic as the favourite, he believes with Alcaraz anything is possible. "I call him a miracle," three-time Wimbledon quarter-finalist Lopez told Reuters at his farewell event in Mallorca this week. "Spain is not a big powerful tennis country compared to others and it's crazy to see one great like Rafa about to end his career and then this kid from Murcia arrived. "Winning a Grand Slam aged 19, being world number one. It's astonishing." ALSO READ: Tennis - Players face 'mental torture' at Wimbledon, says sports psychologist Even Nadal took a while to adjust his clay court game to grass before winning the title in 2008 and 2010. If anything, Alcaraz's style is more suited to the lawns. He has a natural sliced backhand when required, volleys confidently, can launch huge serves and as for his forehand, it will leave burn marks on the hallowed Wimbledon lawns. Alcaraz said the biggest challenge was learning to move on grass, but he erased those worries at Queen's, winning 10 successive sets and saying he already felt like he had been playing on the surface for 10 years. He reached the fourth round on his debut last year, losing to Jannick Sinner, but it would be a major surprise if he did not go well past that stage this year. 'Carlos will win the Wimbledon' "I think he has the skills to be a great grass court player. He has great hands and moves really good and the movement on the grass is key. Not many players move the way he moves," Lopez added. "Before Queen's he had played only six matches on grass but he's so gifted and the gifted players can adjust quickly than the rest of the human beings." Lopez believes Alcaraz's fearless approach will serve him well at Wimbledon. "Of course, he will have nerves, as we saw in the French against Djokovic. But he has the ability, like the truly great players, to survive and find a way. It's not only his tennis and his physical strength, but he's brave enough to challenge the best players in the game at such a young age." While Lopez is not entirely surprised by Alcaraz's fast transition to grass, others are. "I never thought that Carlos Alcaraz was going to be able to get used to grass so fast," seven-time Grand Slam champions Mats Wilander told Eurosport. "For him to get this equation right seems incredible to me. "To me, Alcaraz has already shown that he can win Wimbledon." WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Wimbledon 2023: Feliciano Lopez hails 'miracle boy' Carlos Alcaraz, touts him to fill compatriot Nadal's shoes

Three-time Grand Slam winner Andy Murray is gearing up for Wimbledon 2023 edition. The veteran's career has been marred with injury concerns. Before he decides to call it quits, Murray will be eager to add more titles to his cabinet. Recently, the Brit spoke at length on his retirement plans and revealed that he wants to sign off on his 'own terms'.

Speaking to Sky Sports, the 36-year-old said that he is focused on making the most of the opportunities in the last phase of his professional career. In 2018, he underwent hip surgery which kept him out of action for almost the whole season. However, now he wants to remain injury free and compete hard till he decides to step aside. Murray revealed that he plans to 'keep playing a bit longer' but hopes no big injury derails his progress.

<h2>Another injury would mean the end for me: Murray</h2>

Murray said, “I hope not, but you never know. It's why athletes need to make the most of it while they're still able to because if I was to have another big injury or if something happened to the metal hip, that would be me finished. I wouldn't try to come back from another operation or major surgery again so I want to keep playing a bit longer."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/partied-all-night-and-scored-250-next-day-ishant-shares-unheard-tale-of-kohli-lauds-his-transformation-608843">Partied all night and scored 250 next day: Ishant shares unheard tale of Kohli, lauds his transformation</a>

The two-time Wimbledon winner made it clear that he doesn't want to retire after this year's edition at the All England Club. "I know it's not going to be going on forever, but I have an idea of when I would like to finish and it's not this year's Wimbledon. I don't know exactly which tournament it would be or where it will be. I just have an idea of how much longer I would like to play for and I don't want to put myself in a position like before I had the operation."

“I want to finish on my own terms. I want to finish on the court where I feel I can still do myself justice and playing at a really high level. I definitely feel I can do that for a couple more years,”&nbsp;Murray concluded.

Murray occupies the 39th spot in the latest ATP rankings and&nbsp;recently emerged on top to claim&nbsp;the Nottingham Open title before facing a first-round&nbsp;exit&nbsp;at the Queen’s Club Championships. Only time will tell how far will he go in the forthcoming Wimbledon, which starts on July 3.

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Three-time Grand Slam winner Andy Murray is gearing up for Wimbledon 2023 edition. The veteran's career has been marred with injury concerns. Before he decides to call it quits, Murray will be eager to add more titles to his cabinet.

Three-time Grand Slam winner Andy Murray is gearing up for Wimbledon 2023 edition. The veteran's career has been marred with injury concerns. Before he decides to call it quits, Murray will be eager to add more titles to his cabinet. Recently, the Brit spoke at length on his retirement plans and revealed that he wants to sign off on his 'own terms'. Speaking to Sky Sports, the 36-year-old said that he is focused on making the most of the opportunities in the last phase of his professional career. In 2018, he underwent hip surgery which kept him out of action for almost the whole season. However, now he wants to remain injury free and compete hard till he decides to step aside. Murray revealed that he plans to 'keep playing a bit longer' but hopes no big injury derails his progress. Another injury would mean the end for me: Murray Murray said, “I hope not, but you never know. It's why athletes need to make the most of it while they're still able to because if I was to have another big injury or if something happened to the metal hip, that would be me finished. I wouldn't try to come back from another operation or major surgery again so I want to keep playing a bit longer." Also Read: Partied all night and scored 250 next day: Ishant shares unheard tale of Kohli, lauds his transformation The two-time Wimbledon winner made it clear that he doesn't want to retire after this year's edition at the All England Club. "I know it's not going to be going on forever, but I have an idea of when I would like to finish and it's not this year's Wimbledon. I don't know exactly which tournament it would be or where it will be. I just have an idea of how much longer I would like to play for and I don't want to put myself in a position like before I had the operation." “I want to finish on my own terms. I want to finish on the court where I feel I can still do myself justice and playing at a really high level. I definitely feel I can do that for a couple more years,” Murray concluded. Murray occupies the 39th spot in the latest ATP rankings and recently emerged on top to claim the Nottingham Open title before facing a first-round exit at the Queen’s Club Championships. Only time will tell how far will he go in the forthcoming Wimbledon, which starts on July 3. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Tennis: 'I want to finish on own terms' - Andy Murray on retirement plans ahead of Wimbledon 2023

Veteran Roger Federer was the guest of honour on the 30th anniversary of the Halle Open on June 21, Wednesday, while inside OWL Arena, a special ceremony was held to mark his achievement.

Veteran Roger Federer was the guest of honour on the 30th anniversary of the Halle Open on June 21, Wednesday, while inside OWL Arena, a special ceremony was held to mark his achievement. The ten-time German grass-court ATP 500 event winner also weighed on the GOAT (Greatest of all time) debate following Novak Djokovic’s record-breaking 23 Grand Slam wins at the Roland Garros in Paris lately. As the tournament commemorated "Roger Federer Day" on the centre court, the 103-time ATP tour-level winner praised Novak for his gigantic achievement but said for as long as Rafael Nadal is around, this debate stays alive. 𝐑𝐅 is honoured in Halle 🐐@ATPHalle welcomes back 10-time champion @rogerfederer on #RogerFedererDay! ❤️#TerraWortmannOpen pic.twitter.com/DDypaGO6op — ATP Tour (@atptour) June 21, 2023 × Federer, who retired from professional tennis last September during the Laver Cup, showered praises on Novak, aged 36, for becoming the first male Tennis star to win 23 Grand Slams in Open Era, surpassing Nadal's tally of 22 Slam wins. And by mentioning Rod Laver’s unique record of him lifting the Wimbledon title at the age of 17 in the same sentence, Roger said, "What is better? Winning Wimbledon at 17 like Becker or Paris at 36 like Novak? I don't know." ALSO READ: Bidding committee 'underestimating' 2024 Olympics budget is now costing Paris, says Government report Meanwhile, when asked to share his thoughts on the GOAT debate, Roger, who is widely regarded as the greatest athlete of all time, let alone in Tennis, replied by saying till the time his old foe on the field and a dear friend of his, Rafael Nadal is around, calling Novak the GOAT will not do justice. "What he has achieved is absolutely gigantic. It could be sufficient. But I think as long as Rafa is still playing, too, you can't answer that definitively yet," Roger added. Rogers relishes time spent in Halle At Halle, Roger boasts a 69-8 career record, having won in 2003-06, 2008, 2013-15, 2017 and 2019. Upon returning to the event for the first time since hanging his boots, Federer remembered the time spent in this event over the past two decades and cherished his friendship with the Weber family. “With Halle, we go way back,” said Federer. “I don’t know the first time I ever came here, maybe 22 years ago, and I played 18 years in those years. More than just a partnership, it’s also become a friendship over the years with the Weber family, first Gerhard Weber and then Ralf, who is now the tournament director. So it’s been a wonderful time, obviously also [I had] a lot of success here." Memories that will last forever. 🫂 There is only one @rogerfederer ✨@ATPHalle | #TerraWortmannOpen pic.twitter.com/2Yxv02a88p — ATP Tour (@atptour) June 21, 2023 × “[There were] great times, good moments spent as well in the second part of my career with the family. My kids would be running around all across the venue, and also the fans. We got to know them all, there’s been a lot of moments for interaction as well. It’s been really good, to be honest, and I always love coming here, so it’s really nice to come back again once I’m retired,” Federer added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Roger Federer weighs in on GOAT debate, says 'what Novak has achieved is gigantic but till Nadal is around...'

The French Open 2023 is currently underway and Rafael Nadal is being surely missed. The 14-time Roland Garros winner decided not to play in his favourite slam owing to an injury he had suffered in the Australian Open in January earlier this year.

The Spaniard has now undergone the surgery for the same injury — arthroscopic surgery for injured left hip flexor to be precise — on Friday night, a day before his 37th birthday. Nadal's spokesman Benito Perez-Barbadillo informed about the surgery which took place in Barcelona.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fa-cup-preview-manchester-united-stand-in-way-as-pep-guardiolas-city-chase-historic-treble-599926">FA Cup Final Preview: Manchester United stand in way as Pep Guardiola's City chase historic treble</a>

Nadal picked up the injury during his second round loss against Mackenzie McDonald in the Australian Open on January 18 and hasn't played a single game since. The 22-time grand slam winner hoped to recover in time for the Monte Carlos tournament but that couldn't be the case. The Spaniard dropped out of French Open afterwards as he informed about his decision days before the ongoing grand slam.

"The evolution of the injury I sustained in Australia has not gone as I would have liked. I have lost goals along the way, and Roland Garros becomes impossible. At this moment, I won't be able to be at Roland Garros. With what that tournament is for me, you can imagine how difficult it is. I have no intention of continuing to play for the next few months," Nadal had said at the press conference.

He further said that he'd like to play for another year on the professional court but he couldn't say that with 100 per cent surety.

"My intention is for next year to be my last year on the professional tour, I can't say this 100 per cent because you never know what's going to happen," Nadal had added.

Notably, with 22 slams, Nadal is tied with Serbian Novak Djokovic for most grand slam titles among men. Djokovic, however, has the chance to go one up on Nadal if he manages to win French Open 2023 as he has already entered the Round of 16.&nbsp;

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The French Open 2023 is currently underway and Rafael Nadal is being surely missed. The 14-time Roland Garros winner decided not to play in his favourite slam owing to an injury he had suffered in the Australian Open in January earlier this year.

The French Open 2023 is currently underway and Rafael Nadal is being surely missed. The 14-time Roland Garros winner decided not to play in his favourite slam owing to an injury he had suffered in the Australian Open in January earlier this year. The Spaniard has now undergone the surgery for the same injury — arthroscopic surgery for injured left hip flexor to be precise — on Friday night, a day before his 37th birthday. Nadal's spokesman Benito Perez-Barbadillo informed about the surgery which took place in Barcelona. Also Read: FA Cup Final Preview: Manchester United stand in way as Pep Guardiola's City chase historic treble Nadal picked up the injury during his second round loss against Mackenzie McDonald in the Australian Open on January 18 and hasn't played a single game since. The 22-time grand slam winner hoped to recover in time for the Monte Carlos tournament but that couldn't be the case. The Spaniard dropped out of French Open afterwards as he informed about his decision days before the ongoing grand slam. "The evolution of the injury I sustained in Australia has not gone as I would have liked. I have lost goals along the way, and Roland Garros becomes impossible. At this moment, I won't be able to be at Roland Garros. With what that tournament is for me, you can imagine how difficult it is. I have no intention of continuing to play for the next few months," Nadal had said at the press conference. He further said that he'd like to play for another year on the professional court but he couldn't say that with 100 per cent surety. "My intention is for next year to be my last year on the professional tour, I can't say this 100 per cent because you never know what's going to happen," Nadal had added. Notably, with 22 slams, Nadal is tied with Serbian Novak Djokovic for most grand slam titles among men. Djokovic, however, has the chance to go one up on Nadal if he manages to win French Open 2023 as he has already entered the Round of 16. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Tennis: Rafael Nadal undergoes surgery for injury which forced him out of French Open

Former World number one Novak Djokovic booked his place in the Round of 16 of the ongoing French Open 2023 as he overcame a stern challenge from Alejandro Davidovich Fokina of Spain. Djokovic with the win has sealed his place in the R16 for the 14th consecutive year and will look to win a record-breaking 23rd Grand Slam title in Paris. The Serb is one of the favourites to win the tournament and needed two tiebreaks before he won the contest with scores of 7-6 (7/4), 7-6 (7/5), 6-2.

<h2>What happened in the contest?</h2>

Djokovic, seeded third in the tournament was taken to the limits by his Spanish opponents but eventually prevailed 7-4 in the tiebreak. The Spaniard then took the second set by storm as well but again was short of the target as the Serb sealed the second set 7-5. The third set was no teaser for the former two-time champion in Paris who won 6-2 to seal a place in the Round of 16.

"I knew it would be a difficult and physical match. We played three hours just for the first two sets. I thought if I lost the second set that we would play for five hours," said Djokovic.

"He's an amazing fighter and there aren't many weaknesses in his game.

"But a win is a win and I am very proud of the way I played today."

He will next face either Hubert Hurkacz or Peru's Juan Pablo Varillas for a place in the quarterfinal on Sunday.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-against-india-is-our-grand-finale-ahead-of-ashes-2023-says-australian-spinner-nathan-lyon-599610">WTC final against India is our grand-finale ahead of Ashes 2023, says Australian spinner Nathan Lyon</a>

Djokovic claimed the breaker and bellowed at the crowd. Some spectators then jeered him as he argued with the umpire before calling a medical timeout for treatment on his left thigh.

The Serb, in return, gave the Court Philippe Chatrier fans a sarcastic thumbs up and a round of applause.

Djokovic stretched out to a commanding 3-0 lead in the decider and briefly won back the affection of the crowd when he helped his opponent courtside after a nasty fall.

A win in Paris for Djokovic will see him become the most successful men’s singles tennis player with 23 Grand Slam titles. He will surpass Rafael Nadal’s tally of 22 Grand Slam titles while he will be one short of Margaret Court’s singles record of 24 titles.

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Former World number one Novak Djokovic booked his place in the Round of 16 of the ongoing French Open 2023 as he overcame a stern challenge from Alejandro Davidovich Fokina of Spain.

Former World number one Novak Djokovic booked his place in the Round of 16 of the ongoing French Open 2023 as he overcame a stern challenge from Alejandro Davidovich Fokina of Spain. Djokovic with the win has sealed his place in the R16 for the 14th consecutive year and will look to win a record-breaking 23rd Grand Slam title in Paris. The Serb is one of the favourites to win the tournament and needed two tiebreaks before he won the contest with scores of 7-6 (7/4), 7-6 (7/5), 6-2. What happened in the contest? Djokovic, seeded third in the tournament was taken to the limits by his Spanish opponents but eventually prevailed 7-4 in the tiebreak. The Spaniard then took the second set by storm as well but again was short of the target as the Serb sealed the second set 7-5. The third set was no teaser for the former two-time champion in Paris who won 6-2 to seal a place in the Round of 16. "I knew it would be a difficult and physical match. We played three hours just for the first two sets. I thought if I lost the second set that we would play for five hours," said Djokovic. "He's an amazing fighter and there aren't many weaknesses in his game. "But a win is a win and I am very proud of the way I played today." He will next face either Hubert Hurkacz or Peru's Juan Pablo Varillas for a place in the quarterfinal on Sunday. ALSO READ | WTC final against India is our grand-finale ahead of Ashes 2023, says Australian spinner Nathan Lyon Djokovic claimed the breaker and bellowed at the crowd. Some spectators then jeered him as he argued with the umpire before calling a medical timeout for treatment on his left thigh. The Serb, in return, gave the Court Philippe Chatrier fans a sarcastic thumbs up and a round of applause. Djokovic stretched out to a commanding 3-0 lead in the decider and briefly won back the affection of the crowd when he helped his opponent courtside after a nasty fall. A win in Paris for Djokovic will see him become the most successful men’s singles tennis player with 23 Grand Slam titles. He will surpass Rafael Nadal’s tally of 22 Grand Slam titles while he will be one short of Margaret Court’s singles record of 24 titles. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

French Open: Novak Djokovic seals R16 berth for 16th successive year, overcomes Alejandro Fokina's challenge

The French Open 2023 saw its first major upset on Tuesday in the first round as former US Open champion and second seed Daniil Medvedev was knocked out in the first round by Brazilian Thiago Wild. Medvedev, one of the favourites to win this year’s Roland-Garros, will now have to wait until the Wimbledon Championships to add to his trophy cabinet. The 7-6 (7/5), 6-7 (6/8), 2-6, 6-3, 6-4 defeat came just a week after he won the Italian Open.

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What an upset! 🤯 
 
Qualifier Seyboth Wild 🇧🇷 takes out the No. 2 seed, Daniil Medvedev, in 5 sets! 👏<a href="https://twitter.com/rolandgarros?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rolandgarros</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RolandGarros?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RolandGarros</a> <a href="https://t.co/hiUHTRwZR7">pic.twitter.com/hiUHTRwZR7</a>
— ATP Tour (@atptour) <a href="https://twitter.com/atptour/status/1663579218746253312?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 30, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Medvedev pays big price</h2>

The Russian came into the contest with high expectations, having missed the 2022 season with a hernia issue. Things did not work out for Medvedev in the first set as he came second best against the 172nd seed in the tiebreak. Things got better for him in the later stage as he came back to win the next two sets and pocketed a 2-1 lead after the third set. The second seed won the second and third sets on tiebreak and 6-2, respectively.

Things, however, took a different turn as he lost control of the contest to hand the initiative to his opponent. Wild would come from behind to pocket the fourth set 6-3 before he caused the biggest upset of 2023 to stun Medvedev in the fifth set. Wild won the fifth set 6-4 and secured the biggest win of his career.

It was Medvedev's fifth loss in the opening round at Roland Garros in seven appearances.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/want-to-dedicate-this-win-to-one-of-the-special-members-of-the-team-ms-dhoni-jadeja-after-csks-5th-ipl-title-598217">Want to dedicate this win to one of the special members of the team MS Dhoni: Jadeja after CSK's 5th IPL title</a>

<h2>Wild’s thoughts after the match</h2>

"I have watched Daniil play in my junior years. It's a dream come true to beat these kinds of players on this court," said the 23-year-old Brazilian who unleashed 69 winners.

"I was cramping in the second set and couldn't really serve the way I wanted to but I tried to play my best tennis."

The big exit now means Medvedev will have to wait until the Wimbledon Championships, starting July 3 to claim his first major since US Open 2021. He lost in the final of the Australia Open 2022 and will look for a comeback in London.

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The French Open 2023 saw its first major upset on Tuesday in the first round as former US Open champion and second seed Daniil Medvedev was knocked out in the first round by Brazilian Thiago Wild.

The French Open 2023 saw its first major upset on Tuesday in the first round as former US Open champion and second seed Daniil Medvedev was knocked out in the first round by Brazilian Thiago Wild. Medvedev, one of the favourites to win this year’s Roland-Garros, will now have to wait until the Wimbledon Championships to add to his trophy cabinet. The 7-6 (7/5), 6-7 (6/8), 2-6, 6-3, 6-4 defeat came just a week after he won the Italian Open. What an upset! 🤯 Qualifier Seyboth Wild 🇧🇷 takes out the No. 2 seed, Daniil Medvedev, in 5 sets! 👏@rolandgarros | #RolandGarros pic.twitter.com/hiUHTRwZR7 — ATP Tour (@atptour) May 30, 2023 × Medvedev pays big price The Russian came into the contest with high expectations, having missed the 2022 season with a hernia issue. Things did not work out for Medvedev in the first set as he came second best against the 172nd seed in the tiebreak. Things got better for him in the later stage as he came back to win the next two sets and pocketed a 2-1 lead after the third set. The second seed won the second and third sets on tiebreak and 6-2, respectively. Things, however, took a different turn as he lost control of the contest to hand the initiative to his opponent. Wild would come from behind to pocket the fourth set 6-3 before he caused the biggest upset of 2023 to stun Medvedev in the fifth set. Wild won the fifth set 6-4 and secured the biggest win of his career. It was Medvedev's fifth loss in the opening round at Roland Garros in seven appearances. ALSO READ | Want to dedicate this win to one of the special members of the team MS Dhoni: Jadeja after CSK's 5th IPL title Wild’s thoughts after the match "I have watched Daniil play in my junior years. It's a dream come true to beat these kinds of players on this court," said the 23-year-old Brazilian who unleashed 69 winners. "I was cramping in the second set and couldn't really serve the way I wanted to but I tried to play my best tennis." The big exit now means Medvedev will have to wait until the Wimbledon Championships, starting July 3 to claim his first major since US Open 2021. He lost in the final of the Australia Open 2022 and will look for a comeback in London. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

French Open: Second seed Daniil Medvedev STUNNED by Brazil's Thiago Wild in first round

Novak Djokovic will eye a place in the history books as he chases yet another French Open title with Rafael Nadal not participating in the Paris Grand Slam. An unprecedented 23rd title will be on the agenda for Djokovic which will see him crowned as the most successful men’s singles player ahead of Nadal and Roger Federer. Standing in his way will be world no. 1 Carlos Alcaraz, former French Open runners-up Stefanos Tsitsipas, and Casper Ruud for the upcoming two weeks.

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Off the back of his first ever title on clay in Rome, <a href="https://twitter.com/DaniilMedwed?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DaniilMedwed</a> comes to Paris with higher expectations. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RolandGarros?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RolandGarros</a>
— Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) <a href="https://twitter.com/rolandgarros/status/1662424157953597440?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 27, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Djokovic eyes place in history book</h2>

Having captured his 22nd Grand Slam at the Australian Open, Djokovic will be prepared to add yet another to his trophy cabinet. A win at this Roland-Garros will also see him close the gap on the all-time most singles titles of Margaret Court with 24. As things stand, the two-time champion is set to face stern competition from US Open champion Alcaraz as he has been knocking on the doors for a while for a big title.

Alcaraz is looked at as the successor to Rafael Nadal, with the latter not participating in the tournament due to a hip issue. Stefanos Tsitsipas is another contender who can put a spanner in the work of Djokovic having come close in the 2021 edition. Tsitsipas recently parted ways with his coach but still has enough in his arsenal to upset the odds. His clay court record also makes good reading having won the Monte Carlo Open in 2022.

Daniil Medvedev is also another contender to lift holy-grail as he comes with fresh memories of winning the Italian Open. Last year he missed the French Open with a hernia surgery and also remains the only man to have defeated Djokovic in a Grand Slam final. He won the 2021 US Open final to deny the Serb an opportunity to win a season Grand Slam.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2023-one-of-the-finest-t20-innings-i-have-seen-gt-captain-hardik-pandya-lauds-superman-shubman-gill-597032">IPL 2023: 'One of the finest T20 innings I have seen,' GT captain Hardik Pandya lauds superman Shubman Gill</a>

Other top contenders in the Men’s draw remain, Casper Ruud, Holger Rune, and Andrey Rublev. Rune was runner-up in the recently concluded Italian Open while Rublev pocketed the Monte Carlo and has enough in the bank to go all the way and win the title.

<h2>Iga Swiatek favourite in Women’s draw?</h2>

Iga Swiatek, defending champion will be the favourite to win clinch another title at the French capital but standing in her way will be Australian Open champion and runner-up Aryna Sabalenka and Elena Rybakina respectively. The latter also comes with momentum on her side having won the Wimbledon title and the Italian Open.

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Novak Djokovic will eye a place in the history books as he chases yet another French Open title with Rafael Nadal not participating in the Paris Grand Slam. An unprecedented 23rd title will be on the agenda for Djokovic which will see him crowned as the most successful men’s singles player ahead of Nadal and Roger Federer.

Novak Djokovic will eye a place in the history books as he chases yet another French Open title with Rafael Nadal not participating in the Paris Grand Slam. An unprecedented 23rd title will be on the agenda for Djokovic which will see him crowned as the most successful men’s singles player ahead of Nadal and Roger Federer. Standing in his way will be world no. 1 Carlos Alcaraz, former French Open runners-up Stefanos Tsitsipas, and Casper Ruud for the upcoming two weeks. Off the back of his first ever title on clay in Rome, @DaniilMedwed comes to Paris with higher expectations. #RolandGarros — Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) May 27, 2023 × Djokovic eyes place in history book Having captured his 22nd Grand Slam at the Australian Open, Djokovic will be prepared to add yet another to his trophy cabinet. A win at this Roland-Garros will also see him close the gap on the all-time most singles titles of Margaret Court with 24. As things stand, the two-time champion is set to face stern competition from US Open champion Alcaraz as he has been knocking on the doors for a while for a big title. Alcaraz is looked at as the successor to Rafael Nadal, with the latter not participating in the tournament due to a hip issue. Stefanos Tsitsipas is another contender who can put a spanner in the work of Djokovic having come close in the 2021 edition. Tsitsipas recently parted ways with his coach but still has enough in his arsenal to upset the odds. His clay court record also makes good reading having won the Monte Carlo Open in 2022. Daniil Medvedev is also another contender to lift holy-grail as he comes with fresh memories of winning the Italian Open. Last year he missed the French Open with a hernia surgery and also remains the only man to have defeated Djokovic in a Grand Slam final. He won the 2021 US Open final to deny the Serb an opportunity to win a season Grand Slam. ALSO READ | IPL 2023: 'One of the finest T20 innings I have seen,' GT captain Hardik Pandya lauds superman Shubman Gill Other top contenders in the Men’s draw remain, Casper Ruud, Holger Rune, and Andrey Rublev. Rune was runner-up in the recently concluded Italian Open while Rublev pocketed the Monte Carlo and has enough in the bank to go all the way and win the title. Iga Swiatek favourite in Women’s draw? Iga Swiatek, defending champion will be the favourite to win clinch another title at the French capital but standing in her way will be Australian Open champion and runner-up Aryna Sabalenka and Elena Rybakina respectively. The latter also comes with momentum on her side having won the Wimbledon title and the Italian Open. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

French Open Preview: Novak Djokovic eyes record 23rd Grand Slam title as Alcaraz, Ruud stand in way

All eyes are on the forthcoming French Open 2023 edition, which kicks off on May 28 in Paris, France. With no Rafael Nadal -- who announced his decision to withdraw from the tournament due to a hip injury -- legendary star John McEnroe feels Novak Djokovic has a great chance of lifting the title at the Roland Garros.&nbsp;

It is to be noted that Djokovic has so far&nbsp;won 22 Grand Slam singles titles. Only two of them have come at the French Open, in 2016 and 2021. With no Nadal, his longtime rival, the Serbian will hope to end&nbsp;as the eventual winner, but will be wary of the threat posed by world number one Carlos Alcaraz, Daniil Medvedev, Stefanos Tsitsipas, etc.&nbsp;

If Djokovic wins the French Open, he will become&nbsp;the most successful male player with as many as 23 titles (currently, Nadal is tied with the Serbian at 22). In addition, the 36-year-old will inch&nbsp;closer to&nbsp;Margaret Court’s record for most Grand Slams (24), combining men’s and women’s tennis.&nbsp;

Ahead of French Open's commencement, McEnroe was quoted as saying, "He's tied with Rafa, so this is an opening. He's had a tough year and a half in a lot of ways, and he's also done some incredible things. Novak, he's always looking for some inspiration, some fuel, and he's got some now, and he's got a great chance."

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rafael-nadal-withdraws-from-french-open-2023-with-injury-concerns-out-for-several-months-593766">Rafael Nadal withdraws from French Open, expects '2024 to be his last year in tennis'</a>

<h2>Will 2024 be Rafa's last?</h2>

Last week, Nadal addressed a&nbsp;presser where he said, "The evolution of the injury I sustained in Australia has not gone as I would have liked. I have lost goals along the way, and Roland Garros becomes impossible. At this moment, I won't be able to be at Roland Garros. With what that tournament is for me, you can imagine how difficult it is. I have no intention of continuing to play for the next few months."

Further, he made a big claim by saying, "2024 is&nbsp;probably going to be my last year on the professional tour, I can't say this 100 per cent because you never know what's going to happen."

With Nadal (14-time French Open champion) missing the clay-court tournament for the first time since 2005, Djokovic has a great chance to move past him in the Grand Slam tally. Will he be able to triumph over the young troops? Only time will tell...

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All eyes are on the forthcoming French Open 2023 edition, which kicks off on May 28 in Paris, France. With no Rafael Nadal -- who announced his decision to withdraw from the tournament due to a hip injury -- legendary star John McEnroe feels Novak Djokovic has a great chance of lifting the title at the Roland Garros.

All eyes are on the forthcoming French Open 2023 edition, which kicks off on May 28 in Paris, France. With no Rafael Nadal -- who announced his decision to withdraw from the tournament due to a hip injury -- legendary star John McEnroe feels Novak Djokovic has a great chance of lifting the title at the Roland Garros. It is to be noted that Djokovic has so far won 22 Grand Slam singles titles. Only two of them have come at the French Open, in 2016 and 2021. With no Nadal, his longtime rival, the Serbian will hope to end as the eventual winner, but will be wary of the threat posed by world number one Carlos Alcaraz, Daniil Medvedev, Stefanos Tsitsipas, etc. If Djokovic wins the French Open, he will become the most successful male player with as many as 23 titles (currently, Nadal is tied with the Serbian at 22). In addition, the 36-year-old will inch closer to Margaret Court’s record for most Grand Slams (24), combining men’s and women’s tennis. Ahead of French Open's commencement, McEnroe was quoted as saying, "He's tied with Rafa, so this is an opening. He's had a tough year and a half in a lot of ways, and he's also done some incredible things. Novak, he's always looking for some inspiration, some fuel, and he's got some now, and he's got a great chance." Also Read: Rafael Nadal withdraws from French Open, expects '2024 to be his last year in tennis' Will 2024 be Rafa's last? Last week, Nadal addressed a presser where he said, "The evolution of the injury I sustained in Australia has not gone as I would have liked. I have lost goals along the way, and Roland Garros becomes impossible. At this moment, I won't be able to be at Roland Garros. With what that tournament is for me, you can imagine how difficult it is. I have no intention of continuing to play for the next few months." Further, he made a big claim by saying, "2024 is probably going to be my last year on the professional tour, I can't say this 100 per cent because you never know what's going to happen." With Nadal (14-time French Open champion) missing the clay-court tournament for the first time since 2005, Djokovic has a great chance to move past him in the Grand Slam tally. Will he be able to triumph over the young troops? Only time will tell... WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Tennis: Djokovic has great chance of winning French Open 2023 in Nadal’s absence, feels John McEnroe

On Thursday (May 18), Rafael Nadal withdrew&nbsp;from the French Open 2023 -- the second Grand Slam of the year -- owing to an abdominal strain he picked up during this year's Australian Open. The 14-time French Open winner announced the decision during a presser on Thursday evening after&nbsp;doubts were cast over&nbsp;his participation for the past few months. Moreover, he indicated that 2024 would probably be his last year in professional tennis.

Nadal was expected to sit out of his favourite of the four Grand Slams after he missed the Dubai Tennis Championships and Qatar Open early this year. Alongside this, the&nbsp;Spaniard also didn't participate in any of the Indian Wells and Miami Masters events. The 22-time Grand Slam winner, in the lead-up to the French Open, also skipped the Monte-Carlo Masters, the Barcelona Open,&nbsp;Madrid and Italian Open.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-iga-swiatek-doubtful-for-title-defense-after-pulling-out-of-italian-open-quarterfinal-593679">French Open: Iga Swiatek doubtful for defending her title after pulling out of Italian Open quarterfinal</a>

<h2>'Next year probably going to be my last'</h2>

At the presser, Nadal said, "The evolution of the injury I sustained in Australia has not gone as I would have liked. I have lost goals along the way, and Roland Garros becomes impossible. At this moment, I won't be able to be at Roland Garros. With what that tournament is for me, you can imagine how difficult it is. I have no intention of continuing to play for the next few months."

Further, he added, "My intention is for next year to be my last year on the professional tour, I can't say this 100 per cent because you never know what's going to happen."

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Rafa, 
 
We can't imagine how hard this decision was. We'll definitely miss you at this year's Roland-Garros. Take care of yourself to come back stronger on courts. 
 
Hoping to see you next year in Paris 🧡 <a href="https://t.co/lTN3GExBFo">pic.twitter.com/lTN3GExBFo</a>
— Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) <a href="https://twitter.com/rolandgarros/status/1659202776717746178?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 18, 2023</a></blockquote>
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At 36, Nadal is surely in the last phase of his glittering career. With a spate of injuries that have halted his progress, the superstar's absence will surely hurt his ardent fans. They, however, will breathe a sigh of relief with him not announcing his retirement, which might still be sooner than later if he continues to struggle with injury concerns.

Nadal is a winner of 22 Grand Slam titles -- joint-most along with arch-rival Novak Djokovic -- and has dominated the French Open with 14 titles on the clay court.

French Open 2023 qualifiers&nbsp;kicked&nbsp;off on May 22 and the main draw begins May 28. The likes of Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz will be favourites heading into the marquee event sans Nadal.

On Thursday (May 18), Rafael Nadal withdrew from the French Open 2023 -- the second Grand Slam of the year -- owing to an abdominal strain he picked up during this year's Australian Open.

On Thursday (May 18), Rafael Nadal withdrew from the French Open 2023 -- the second Grand Slam of the year -- owing to an abdominal strain he picked up during this year's Australian Open. The 14-time French Open winner announced the decision during a presser on Thursday evening after doubts were cast over his participation for the past few months. Moreover, he indicated that 2024 would probably be his last year in professional tennis. Nadal was expected to sit out of his favourite of the four Grand Slams after he missed the Dubai Tennis Championships and Qatar Open early this year. Alongside this, the Spaniard also didn't participate in any of the Indian Wells and Miami Masters events. The 22-time Grand Slam winner, in the lead-up to the French Open, also skipped the Monte-Carlo Masters, the Barcelona Open, Madrid and Italian Open. Also Read: French Open: Iga Swiatek doubtful for defending her title after pulling out of Italian Open quarterfinal 'Next year probably going to be my last' At the presser, Nadal said, "The evolution of the injury I sustained in Australia has not gone as I would have liked. I have lost goals along the way, and Roland Garros becomes impossible. At this moment, I won't be able to be at Roland Garros. With what that tournament is for me, you can imagine how difficult it is. I have no intention of continuing to play for the next few months." Further, he added, "My intention is for next year to be my last year on the professional tour, I can't say this 100 per cent because you never know what's going to happen." Rafa, We can't imagine how hard this decision was. We'll definitely miss you at this year's Roland-Garros. Take care of yourself to come back stronger on courts. Hoping to see you next year in Paris 🧡 pic.twitter.com/lTN3GExBFo — Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) May 18, 2023 × At 36, Nadal is surely in the last phase of his glittering career. With a spate of injuries that have halted his progress, the superstar's absence will surely hurt his ardent fans. They, however, will breathe a sigh of relief with him not announcing his retirement, which might still be sooner than later if he continues to struggle with injury concerns. Nadal is a winner of 22 Grand Slam titles -- joint-most along with arch-rival Novak Djokovic -- and has dominated the French Open with 14 titles on the clay court. French Open 2023 qualifiers kicked off on May 22 and the main draw begins May 28. The likes of Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz will be favourites heading into the marquee event sans Nadal.

Rafael Nadal withdraws from French Open, expects '2024 to be his last year in tennis'

Tennis great Rafael Nadal will not play the French Open for the first time in his career. The 22-time Grand Slam champion says he plans to end his career after the 2024 season. Can the 36-year-old still compete with the best in the business for the major titles?

Rafael Nadal set to retire in 2024

Daniil Medvedev continued his Italian Open clay breakthrough on Thursday as the third seed reached the semi-finals with a 6-2, 6-2 win over Yannick Hanfmann.

The 2021 US Open champion freely admits he's never been comfortable on the dirt but has shattered that stereotype with his steady progress at the Foro Italico, reaching his seventh semi-final of the season.

He dominated number 101 German qualifier Hanfmann after settling in following breaks of serve in the opening&nbsp;three games in their&nbsp;quarter-final.

After going down a break in the second set, the 31-year-old Hanfmann complained to his coaching box that he had no legs left as he played on prior to losing serve for the fifth time in the match.

But he struck back briefly with a break&nbsp;of the seed to hold on for 2-4 before dropping serve again as Medvedev moved into winning position,&nbsp;closing it out on a second match point.

"I've been having good feelings in practice and I'm proving it here," Medvedev said.

"I'm happy with the win and happy to be in the semi-finals. Prior to this edition, Medvedev had never won a match in Rome and had little confidence in his game on the clay.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/cricket/list-of-ipl-hundreds-by-virat-kohli-featuring-100-vs-sunrisers-hyderabad-1684430443300">List of IPL Hundreds by Virat Kohli</a>

He is now into the final four after four victories and the loss of just one set.

"Against Hanfmann I wanted to put as many balls into the court as possible. He plays very aggressive.

"I played deep to try and make him miss -- and maybe he was not playing his best match. He was struggling more than me. I'm glad I was able to neutralise his game."

Medvedev also increased his lead in Tour match wins as he claimed his 37th of the season.

Greek fifth seed Stefanos Tsitsipas takes on Borna Coric, Croatia's 15th seed, later Thursday.

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Daniil Medvedev continued his Italian Open clay breakthrough on Thursday as the third seed reached the semi-finals with a 6-2, 6-2 win over Yannick Hanfmann. The 2021 US Open champion freely admits he's never been comfortable on the dirt but has shattered that stereotype with his steady progress at the Foro Italico, reaching his seventh semi-final of the season.

Daniil Medvedev continued his Italian Open clay breakthrough on Thursday as the third seed reached the semi-finals with a 6-2, 6-2 win over Yannick Hanfmann. The 2021 US Open champion freely admits he's never been comfortable on the dirt but has shattered that stereotype with his steady progress at the Foro Italico, reaching his seventh semi-final of the season. He dominated number 101 German qualifier Hanfmann after settling in following breaks of serve in the opening three games in their quarter-final. After going down a break in the second set, the 31-year-old Hanfmann complained to his coaching box that he had no legs left as he played on prior to losing serve for the fifth time in the match. But he struck back briefly with a break of the seed to hold on for 2-4 before dropping serve again as Medvedev moved into winning position, closing it out on a second match point. "I've been having good feelings in practice and I'm proving it here," Medvedev said. "I'm happy with the win and happy to be in the semi-finals. Prior to this edition, Medvedev had never won a match in Rome and had little confidence in his game on the clay. ALSO READ | List of IPL Hundreds by Virat Kohli He is now into the final four after four victories and the loss of just one set. "Against Hanfmann I wanted to put as many balls into the court as possible. He plays very aggressive. "I played deep to try and make him miss -- and maybe he was not playing his best match. He was struggling more than me. I'm glad I was able to neutralise his game." Medvedev also increased his lead in Tour match wins as he claimed his 37th of the season. Greek fifth seed Stefanos Tsitsipas takes on Borna Coric, Croatia's 15th seed, later Thursday. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Italian Open: Daniil Medvedev crushes qualifier Yannick Hanfmann to reach Rome semis

Tennis great Rafael Nadal will not play the French Open for the first time in his career. The record 14-time champion admitted he has been unable to reach the standards needed for a successful Grand Slam campaign. Nadal has not played competitively since a second-round exit at the Australian Open in January after suffering a hip injury. The Spaniard has all but ended his 2023 season and hopes to recover for one last hurrah as a competitive Tennis player in 2024. Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo examined the ramifications of Nadal's announcement in a chat with Indian Davis Cup Coach Zeeshan Ali.

Rafael Nadal withdraws from the French Open, Nadal plans to retire in 2024

Rafael Nadal on Thursday, May 18, announced his withdrawal from the French Open 2023 bringing an end to his 18-year streak of appearing at the Roland-Garros. In his illustrious career, Nadal has never missed the French Open and won the title a record 14 times. With Nadal confirming his withdrawal from the tournament this year, the French Open will have a major miss with good friend Roger Federer also not part of the roster, having announced his retirement from the sport in September 2022.

<h2>Why Nadal will be a big absence?</h2>

In the last 18 editions of the French Open, the so-called ‘King of Clay’ dominated in Paris on 14 occasions and never lost a final. Interestingly, he won five consecutive Roland-Garros titles from 2010 to 2014 when he was at the peak of his game. He lost only three matches in Paris and remains one of the most coveted players to have graced the game.

"I'll look to be 100% ready for next year, which I believe will be the last year of my professional career," Nadal told reporters.

"I can't say this 100 per cent because you never know what's going to happen," he said.

With a record of 118-3, he stands alone in both men and women to have won the most matches at a Grand Slam tournament. His record of winning the French Open title on 14 occasions is the most by any player at a single slam in the singles division.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2023-faf-du-plessis-praises-passionate-kohli-says-playing-with-him-is-better-than-playing-against-him-593606">IPL 2023: Faf du Plessis praises passionate Kohli, says playing with him is better than being in opposite team</a>

In 2022, Nadal won his 22nd Grand Slam title, the most by any men’s tennis star at that moment (now joined by Novak Djokovic).

Interestingly, not since 1999 will the Roland-Garros kick start without Federer and Nadal, another new for the tennis fraternity.

<h2>Nadal to retire in 2024?</h2>

During the press conference on Thursday, Nadal also spoke on his retirement plans in 2024 which will bring curtains on his illustrious career. If the retirement plans go accordingly, it will also bring down the curtains to a unique rivalry with Novak Djokovic. They both share a great and could have already seen its last as Djokovic too is in the twilight of his career. 
 
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Rafael Nadal on Thursday, May 18, announced his withdrawal from the French Open 2023 bringing an end to his 18-year streak of appearing at the Roland-Garros. In his illustrious career, Nadal has never missed the French Open and won the title a record 14 times.

Rafael Nadal on Thursday, May 18, announced his withdrawal from the French Open 2023 bringing an end to his 18-year streak of appearing at the Roland-Garros. In his illustrious career, Nadal has never missed the French Open and won the title a record 14 times. With Nadal confirming his withdrawal from the tournament this year, the French Open will have a major miss with good friend Roger Federer also not part of the roster, having announced his retirement from the sport in September 2022. Why Nadal will be a big absence? In the last 18 editions of the French Open, the so-called ‘King of Clay’ dominated in Paris on 14 occasions and never lost a final. Interestingly, he won five consecutive Roland-Garros titles from 2010 to 2014 when he was at the peak of his game. He lost only three matches in Paris and remains one of the most coveted players to have graced the game. "I'll look to be 100% ready for next year, which I believe will be the last year of my professional career," Nadal told reporters. "I can't say this 100 per cent because you never know what's going to happen," he said. With a record of 118-3, he stands alone in both men and women to have won the most matches at a Grand Slam tournament. His record of winning the French Open title on 14 occasions is the most by any player at a single slam in the singles division. ALSO READ | IPL 2023: Faf du Plessis praises passionate Kohli, says playing with him is better than being in opposite team In 2022, Nadal won his 22nd Grand Slam title, the most by any men’s tennis star at that moment (now joined by Novak Djokovic). Interestingly, not since 1999 will the Roland-Garros kick start without Federer and Nadal, another new for the tennis fraternity. Nadal to retire in 2024? During the press conference on Thursday, Nadal also spoke on his retirement plans in 2024 which will bring curtains on his illustrious career. If the retirement plans go accordingly, it will also bring down the curtains to a unique rivalry with Novak Djokovic. They both share a great and could have already seen its last as Djokovic too is in the twilight of his career. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Rafael Nadal's clay court dominance and why he will be missed at French Open for the first time

Rafael Nadal will announce if he will compete in the French Open on Thursday, amid a long-term injury struggle and some Spanish reports that he will withdraw. The 22-time Grand Slam winner has battled to recover from a hip injury he sustained in January at the Australian Open, not playing since then.&nbsp;

"If he plays or not and the reasons either way will only be communicated tomorrow," said a spokesman for Nadal on Wednesday.

Nadal will speak at 4pm local time (1400 GMT) on Thursday at his Rafa Nadal academy in Mallorca.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/italian-open-holger-rune-outplays-defending-champion-novak-djokovic-to-reach-last-four-593387">Italian Open: Holger Rune outplays defending champion Novak Djokovic to reach last four</a>

The Spaniard, 36, pulled out of the Barcelona and Madrid Open tournaments among others in the run-up to Roland Garros, and earlier in May confirmed he would not participate in the Italian Open.

The French Open, which he has won on a record 14 occasions, starts in Paris on May 28.

Nadal's struggles with fitness over the past couple of years have created wider doubts concerning his career. He has competed in just four matches in 2023, winning only once.

The superstar hoped to battle with Novak Djkovic in Paris for a record extending 23rd Grand Slam, after the Serb pulled level with him by winning the Australian Open.

"It depends if Nadal plays or not," joked Djokovic this week when asked if the French Open would be the most open for two decades.

Nadal turned down a wildcard offer for a Challenger tournament in Bordeaux next week as he tried to win his race &nbsp;to make Roland Garros.

He has competed at the tournament in France every year since 2005, which was the first time he won it. The current world number 14, who turns 37 in June, has only lost three times at the French Open since his debut at the tournament. In 2016, he was forced to withdraw from the tournament before the third round with a wrist injury. 
Nadal has never played at the French Open without a warm-up event on clay.

The Spaniard's last match was a straight-sets defeat by American player Mackenzie McDonald in the second round of the Australian open.

The veteran pulled out of hard-court tournaments in the US in March, aiming to make the start of the clay court season, but his injury recovery did not progress as planned. 
Earlier in May, Nadal said his injury situation had improved with a new treatment, but not sufficiently to be able to play in Rome this week.

Physical problems have dogged Nadal through his glittering career and there are fears they may soon bring it to an end.

Rafael Nadal will announce if he will compete in the French Open on Thursday, amid a long-term injury struggle and some Spanish reports that he will withdraw. The 22-time Grand Slam winner has battled to recover from a hip injury he sustained in January at the Australian Open, not playing since then.

Rafael Nadal will announce if he will compete in the French Open on Thursday, amid a long-term injury struggle and some Spanish reports that he will withdraw. The 22-time Grand Slam winner has battled to recover from a hip injury he sustained in January at the Australian Open, not playing since then. "If he plays or not and the reasons either way will only be communicated tomorrow," said a spokesman for Nadal on Wednesday. Nadal will speak at 4pm local time (1400 GMT) on Thursday at his Rafa Nadal academy in Mallorca. ALSO READ: Italian Open: Holger Rune outplays defending champion Novak Djokovic to reach last four The Spaniard, 36, pulled out of the Barcelona and Madrid Open tournaments among others in the run-up to Roland Garros, and earlier in May confirmed he would not participate in the Italian Open. The French Open, which he has won on a record 14 occasions, starts in Paris on May 28. Nadal's struggles with fitness over the past couple of years have created wider doubts concerning his career. He has competed in just four matches in 2023, winning only once. The superstar hoped to battle with Novak Djkovic in Paris for a record extending 23rd Grand Slam, after the Serb pulled level with him by winning the Australian Open. "It depends if Nadal plays or not," joked Djokovic this week when asked if the French Open would be the most open for two decades. Nadal turned down a wildcard offer for a Challenger tournament in Bordeaux next week as he tried to win his race to make Roland Garros. He has competed at the tournament in France every year since 2005, which was the first time he won it. The current world number 14, who turns 37 in June, has only lost three times at the French Open since his debut at the tournament. In 2016, he was forced to withdraw from the tournament before the third round with a wrist injury. Nadal has never played at the French Open without a warm-up event on clay. The Spaniard's last match was a straight-sets defeat by American player Mackenzie McDonald in the second round of the Australian open. The veteran pulled out of hard-court tournaments in the US in March, aiming to make the start of the clay court season, but his injury recovery did not progress as planned. Earlier in May, Nadal said his injury situation had improved with a new treatment, but not sufficiently to be able to play in Rome this week. Physical problems have dogged Nadal through his glittering career and there are fears they may soon bring it to an end.

Veteran Rafael Nadal set to reveal decision on French Open amid injury concerns

Rafael Nadal, on Thursday (April 20), announced that he will not take part in next week's Madrid Open after more setbacks in his recovery from a hip injury. The Spaniard got injured during the Australian Open early this month and has been out of action ever since. The 35-year-old revealed that his body will require more time to heal and has sent shockwaves to his ardent fans ahead of the French Open, which kicks off next month.

Nadal, the 22-time Grand Slam winner, took to his official Twitter handle to share a video where he said, "Hello everyone. It's been a while since I communicated directly with you. It has been a difficult few weeks and months. As you know I suffered a major injury in Australia, at the Psoas. Initially, it had to be a six to eight-week recovery period and we are now on fourteen. The reality is that the situation is not what we would have expected. All medical indications have been followed, but the evolution has not been what they initially told us."

"We find ourselves in a difficult situation. The weeks are passing and I had the illusion of being able to play in tournaments that are the most important in my career such as Monte Carlo, Barcelona, Madrid, Rome, and Roland Garros and for the moment I have missed Monte Carlo and Barcelona. I will not be able to be in Madrid unfortunately. The injury still hasn't healed and I can't work out what I need to compete. I was training, but now a few days ago we decided to change course a bit, do another treatment and see if things improve to try to get to what comes next. I can't give deadlines because if I knew I would tell you but I don't know. This is how things are now."

Nadal added, "I also want to send a special greeting to all the Madrid and Spanish public because I will have missed the two tournaments that are played here at home. You all know what it means for me to play these tournaments and specifically Madrid that I will not be able to play it with everything it has given me. I have no choice but to try to have the right attitude throughout this time, try to give myself the opportunity to compete in one of the tournaments that remains of the clay season and I have no choice but to work and be with the right mentality.

A very strong hug to all and as soon as I have news, I will inform you. Thank you!", he signed off.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-djokovic-argues-with-umpire-breaks-racquet-in-anger-during-monte-carlo-masters-exit-582427">WATCH: Djokovic argues with umpire, breaks racquet in anger during Monte Carlo Masters exit</a>

It is to be noted that Nadal&nbsp;didn't feature at the Indian Wells, Miami and Monte Carlo as well as the ongoing Barcelona Open post his injury in the second round of the Australian Open, where he lost to&nbsp;Mackenzie McDonald in straight sets; 4-6, 4-6, 5-7. In the twilight of his illustrious career, Nadal will be desperate to take part in the French Open, where he has won a record 14 titles, but his recovery progress isn't very encouraging.

Rafael Nadal, on Thursday (April 20), announced that he will not take part in next week's Madrid Open after more setbacks in his recovery from a hip injury. The Spaniard got injured during the Australian Open early this month and has been out of action ever since.

Rafael Nadal, on Thursday (April 20), announced that he will not take part in next week's Madrid Open after more setbacks in his recovery from a hip injury. The Spaniard got injured during the Australian Open early this month and has been out of action ever since. The 35-year-old revealed that his body will require more time to heal and has sent shockwaves to his ardent fans ahead of the French Open, which kicks off next month. Nadal, the 22-time Grand Slam winner, took to his official Twitter handle to share a video where he said, "Hello everyone. It's been a while since I communicated directly with you. It has been a difficult few weeks and months. As you know I suffered a major injury in Australia, at the Psoas. Initially, it had to be a six to eight-week recovery period and we are now on fourteen. The reality is that the situation is not what we would have expected. All medical indications have been followed, but the evolution has not been what they initially told us." "We find ourselves in a difficult situation. The weeks are passing and I had the illusion of being able to play in tournaments that are the most important in my career such as Monte Carlo, Barcelona, Madrid, Rome, and Roland Garros and for the moment I have missed Monte Carlo and Barcelona. I will not be able to be in Madrid unfortunately. The injury still hasn't healed and I can't work out what I need to compete. I was training, but now a few days ago we decided to change course a bit, do another treatment and see if things improve to try to get to what comes next. I can't give deadlines because if I knew I would tell you but I don't know. This is how things are now." Nadal added, "I also want to send a special greeting to all the Madrid and Spanish public because I will have missed the two tournaments that are played here at home. You all know what it means for me to play these tournaments and specifically Madrid that I will not be able to play it with everything it has given me. I have no choice but to try to have the right attitude throughout this time, try to give myself the opportunity to compete in one of the tournaments that remains of the clay season and I have no choice but to work and be with the right mentality. A very strong hug to all and as soon as I have news, I will inform you. Thank you!", he signed off. Also Read: WATCH: Djokovic argues with umpire, breaks racquet in anger during Monte Carlo Masters exit It is to be noted that Nadal didn't feature at the Indian Wells, Miami and Monte Carlo as well as the ongoing Barcelona Open post his injury in the second round of the Australian Open, where he lost to Mackenzie McDonald in straight sets; 4-6, 4-6, 5-7. In the twilight of his illustrious career, Nadal will be desperate to take part in the French Open, where he has won a record 14 titles, but his recovery progress isn't very encouraging.

Rafael Nadal pulls out of Madrid Open, shares statement on injury; Roland Garros participation doubtful

Rafael Nadal has been out of action for quite some time. He is nursing a hip injury which has already kept him out of many tournaments, including the just-concluded Miami Open in the run-up to this year's French Open. The Roland Garros 2023 is just a few weeks away and the Spaniard is running against time to recover fully from his hip injury. Ahead of the French Open, Nadal's longtime rival and good friend Roger Federer feels 'it will be brutal for tennis' if the 14-time French Open champion does not turn up for the showpiece event in Paris, France.

"It would be brutal, it would be tough for&nbsp;tennis&nbsp;if Rafa isn't going to be there," Federer, a 20-time Grand Slam winner, told Sky Sports on Sunday (May 07) at Formula One's Miami Grand Prix. He further asserted, "I still hope so, I saw he pulled out of Rome so I wish him the best."

Federer added, "Obviously Novak (Djokovic) hasn't been playing that much so I hope he's going to be strong as well and then all the young guys coming through as well." The former world number one retired from tennis last year in mid-September.

In April, Nadal, the 22-time Grand Slam winner, took to his official Twitter handle to share a video where he announced, "Hello everyone. It's been a while since I communicated directly with you. It has been a difficult few weeks and months. As you know I suffered a major injury in Australia, at the Psoas. Initially it had to be a six to eight week recovery period and we are now on fourteen. The reality is that the situation is not what we would have expected. All medical indications have been followed, but the evolution has not been what they initially told us."

"We find ourselves in a difficult situation. The weeks are passing and I had the illusion of being able to play in tournaments that are the most important in my career such as Monte Carlo, Barcelona, Madrid, Rome, Roland Garros and for the moment I have missed Monte Carlo and Barcelona. I will not be able to be in Madrid unfortunately. The injury still hasn't healed and I can't work out what I need to to compete. I was training, but now a few days ago we decided to change course a bit, do another treatment and see if things improve to try to get to what comes next. I can't give deadlines because if I knew I would tell you but I don't know. This is how things are now."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rafael-nadal-pulls-out-of-madrid-open-shares-statement-on-injury-roland-garros-participation-doubtful-584376">Rafael Nadal pulls out of Madrid Open, shares statement on injury; Roland Garros participation doubtful</a>

Nadal added, "I also want to send a special greeting to all the Madrid and Spanish public because I will have missed the two tournaments that are played here at home. You all know what it means for me to play these tournaments and specifically Madrid that I will not be able to play it with everything it has given me. I have no choice but to try to have the right attitude throughout this time, try to give myself the opportunity to compete in one of the tournaments that remains of the clay season and I have no choice but to work and be with the right mentality.

A very strong hug to all and as soon as I have news, I will inform you. Thank you!", the world number 14 signed off.

While Nadal isn't officially out of the upcoming Roland Garros, he is certainly running against time to recover before the commencement of this year's French Open. The mega event kicks off on May 22.

Rafael Nadal has been out of action for quite some time. He is nursing a hip injury which has already kept him out of many tournaments, including the just-concluded Miami Open in the run-up to this year's French Open.

Rafael Nadal has been out of action for quite some time. He is nursing a hip injury which has already kept him out of many tournaments, including the just-concluded Miami Open in the run-up to this year's French Open. The Roland Garros 2023 is just a few weeks away and the Spaniard is running against time to recover fully from his hip injury. Ahead of the French Open, Nadal's longtime rival and good friend Roger Federer feels 'it will be brutal for tennis' if the 14-time French Open champion does not turn up for the showpiece event in Paris, France. "It would be brutal, it would be tough for tennis if Rafa isn't going to be there," Federer, a 20-time Grand Slam winner, told Sky Sports on Sunday (May 07) at Formula One's Miami Grand Prix. He further asserted, "I still hope so, I saw he pulled out of Rome so I wish him the best." Federer added, "Obviously Novak (Djokovic) hasn't been playing that much so I hope he's going to be strong as well and then all the young guys coming through as well." The former world number one retired from tennis last year in mid-September. In April, Nadal, the 22-time Grand Slam winner, took to his official Twitter handle to share a video where he announced, "Hello everyone. It's been a while since I communicated directly with you. It has been a difficult few weeks and months. As you know I suffered a major injury in Australia, at the Psoas. Initially it had to be a six to eight week recovery period and we are now on fourteen. The reality is that the situation is not what we would have expected. All medical indications have been followed, but the evolution has not been what they initially told us." "We find ourselves in a difficult situation. The weeks are passing and I had the illusion of being able to play in tournaments that are the most important in my career such as Monte Carlo, Barcelona, Madrid, Rome, Roland Garros and for the moment I have missed Monte Carlo and Barcelona. I will not be able to be in Madrid unfortunately. The injury still hasn't healed and I can't work out what I need to to compete. I was training, but now a few days ago we decided to change course a bit, do another treatment and see if things improve to try to get to what comes next. I can't give deadlines because if I knew I would tell you but I don't know. This is how things are now." Also Read: Rafael Nadal pulls out of Madrid Open, shares statement on injury; Roland Garros participation doubtful Nadal added, "I also want to send a special greeting to all the Madrid and Spanish public because I will have missed the two tournaments that are played here at home. You all know what it means for me to play these tournaments and specifically Madrid that I will not be able to play it with everything it has given me. I have no choice but to try to have the right attitude throughout this time, try to give myself the opportunity to compete in one of the tournaments that remains of the clay season and I have no choice but to work and be with the right mentality. A very strong hug to all and as soon as I have news, I will inform you. Thank you!", the world number 14 signed off. While Nadal isn't officially out of the upcoming Roland Garros, he is certainly running against time to recover before the commencement of this year's French Open. The mega event kicks off on May 22.

Tennis: It would be brutal for tennis if Rafael Nadal misses French Open 2023, says Roger Federer

Rafael&nbsp;Nadal&nbsp;on Friday withdrew from next week's Rome tournament, casting serious doubts over his fitness for the French Open as well as potential questions over the rest of his career.

The 22-time Grand Slam winner has not played since suffering a hip injury at the Australian Open in January.

In all, he has competed in just four matches in 2023, winning only once.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/madrid-open-wonder-boy-carlos-alcaraz-reaches-final-to-face-jan-lennard-struff-in-sundays-summit-clash-589479">Wonder boy Carlos Alcaraz reaches final, to face Jan-Lennard Struff in Sunday's summit clash</a>

The French Open, which the 36-year-old has won on a record 14 occasions, starts in Paris on May 28.

Nadal&nbsp;said his injury situation has improved in the past few days but not sufficiently to be able to compete next week in the Italian capital where he has been champion 10 times.&nbsp;

"You all know how much it hurts me to miss another of the tournaments that have marked my professional and personal career," wrote&nbsp;Nadal&nbsp;on Instagram.

<h2>'No choice'</h2>

"Although I have noticed an improvement in the last few days, it has been many months without being able to train at a high level and the process of readjustment takes a certain amount of time, and I have no choice but to accept that and continue working."

The 22-time major winner -- he shares the men's record with Novak Djokovic -- had originally thought he would be out for up to two months.

He pulled out of hard-court tournaments at Indian Wells and Miami, with his sights set on a return at the start of the clay-court season, but it did not come to fruition.&nbsp;

Nadal&nbsp;had to withdraw from Monte Carlo, Barcelona and Madrid, before eventually adding Rome, the final French Open warm-up event, to the list.

World number two Carlos Alcaraz said he hoped his compatriot would return to compete at Ronald Garros at his best level.

"It's a shame to see Rafa miss the tournaments and the clay court tour, which is the most special to him," Alcaraz told a news conference Friday, after reaching the Madrid Open final.

"Health comes first and if he's decided not to go to Rome, he will have seen that he was not ready.

"I hope to see him at Roland Garros 100 percent. The world wants to see him at 100 percent."

Nadal&nbsp;has been plagued by a succession of problems with his ankles, knees, elbow, wrists and now his hip which has also contributed to him losing his spot in the world top 10 for the first time in 18 years.

In his career, which has stretched over 20 years, the Spaniard has missed 11 Grand Slams and withdrew mid-tournament at the majors five times.

When&nbsp;Nadal&nbsp;claimed a 14th French Open by thrashing Casper Ruud in the 2022 final, he revealed he had required daily pain-killing injections in his foot just to see out the two-week event.

He then underwent a radical surgical procedure, having the nerves burned in his foot to eradicate the pain.

Nadal&nbsp;then swept into the Wimbledon semi-finals but an eagerly-anticipated showdown with Nick Kyrgios was shelved after the Spaniard failed to recover from an abdominal strain.

Fast forward to this year's Australian Open where he was hampered by a hip problem during his shock second-round loss to Mackenzie McDonald.

It was his earliest exit from a Slam since 2016.&nbsp;

For&nbsp;Nadal, it was familiar territory.

A left foot problem caused him to miss Wimbledon, the US Open and the Olympics in Tokyo in 2021 and&nbsp;Nadal&nbsp;did not return until the build-up to the 2022 Australian Open, which he went on to win for the second time, 13 years after his first.

But after losing to Taylor Fritz in the Indian Wells final, the Spaniard had to skip the start of the clay-court season in Monte Carlo and Barcelona with a rib stress fracture.

<h2>'It hurts always'</h2>

Many pundits consistently predicted&nbsp;Nadal&nbsp;would struggle to enjoy a long career due to his gruelling style of play but he proved them wrong time and again.

His first injury-enforced absence came as a 16-year-old in 2003 when he hurt his elbow in a fall during training and had to miss the French Open.

He has been forced to sit out at least one tournament in every year of his career.

Despite missing so many events,&nbsp;Nadal's will to win has still seen him lift 92 titles and win 1,068 matches on tour.

"It hurts as always," said&nbsp;Nadal&nbsp;after his defeat to McDonald in Australia.

"But in the end, the glass is getting fuller," he added in Spanish, a phrase that means getting fed up or reaching your limit.

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Rafael Nadal on Friday withdrew from next week's Rome tournament, casting serious doubts over his fitness for the French Open as well as potential questions over the rest of his career.

Rafael Nadal on Friday withdrew from next week's Rome tournament, casting serious doubts over his fitness for the French Open as well as potential questions over the rest of his career. The 22-time Grand Slam winner has not played since suffering a hip injury at the Australian Open in January. In all, he has competed in just four matches in 2023, winning only once. Also Read: Wonder boy Carlos Alcaraz reaches final, to face Jan-Lennard Struff in Sunday's summit clash The French Open, which the 36-year-old has won on a record 14 occasions, starts in Paris on May 28. Nadal said his injury situation has improved in the past few days but not sufficiently to be able to compete next week in the Italian capital where he has been champion 10 times. "You all know how much it hurts me to miss another of the tournaments that have marked my professional and personal career," wrote Nadal on Instagram. 'No choice' "Although I have noticed an improvement in the last few days, it has been many months without being able to train at a high level and the process of readjustment takes a certain amount of time, and I have no choice but to accept that and continue working." The 22-time major winner -- he shares the men's record with Novak Djokovic -- had originally thought he would be out for up to two months. He pulled out of hard-court tournaments at Indian Wells and Miami, with his sights set on a return at the start of the clay-court season, but it did not come to fruition. Nadal had to withdraw from Monte Carlo, Barcelona and Madrid, before eventually adding Rome, the final French Open warm-up event, to the list. World number two Carlos Alcaraz said he hoped his compatriot would return to compete at Ronald Garros at his best level. "It's a shame to see Rafa miss the tournaments and the clay court tour, which is the most special to him," Alcaraz told a news conference Friday, after reaching the Madrid Open final. "Health comes first and if he's decided not to go to Rome, he will have seen that he was not ready. "I hope to see him at Roland Garros 100 percent. The world wants to see him at 100 percent." Nadal has been plagued by a succession of problems with his ankles, knees, elbow, wrists and now his hip which has also contributed to him losing his spot in the world top 10 for the first time in 18 years. In his career, which has stretched over 20 years, the Spaniard has missed 11 Grand Slams and withdrew mid-tournament at the majors five times. When Nadal claimed a 14th French Open by thrashing Casper Ruud in the 2022 final, he revealed he had required daily pain-killing injections in his foot just to see out the two-week event. He then underwent a radical surgical procedure, having the nerves burned in his foot to eradicate the pain. Nadal then swept into the Wimbledon semi-finals but an eagerly-anticipated showdown with Nick Kyrgios was shelved after the Spaniard failed to recover from an abdominal strain. Fast forward to this year's Australian Open where he was hampered by a hip problem during his shock second-round loss to Mackenzie McDonald. It was his earliest exit from a Slam since 2016. For Nadal, it was familiar territory. A left foot problem caused him to miss Wimbledon, the US Open and the Olympics in Tokyo in 2021 and Nadal did not return until the build-up to the 2022 Australian Open, which he went on to win for the second time, 13 years after his first. But after losing to Taylor Fritz in the Indian Wells final, the Spaniard had to skip the start of the clay-court season in Monte Carlo and Barcelona with a rib stress fracture. 'It hurts always' Many pundits consistently predicted Nadal would struggle to enjoy a long career due to his gruelling style of play but he proved them wrong time and again. His first injury-enforced absence came as a 16-year-old in 2003 when he hurt his elbow in a fall during training and had to miss the French Open. He has been forced to sit out at least one tournament in every year of his career. Despite missing so many events, Nadal's will to win has still seen him lift 92 titles and win 1,068 matches on tour. "It hurts as always," said Nadal after his defeat to McDonald in Australia. "But in the end, the glass is getting fuller," he added in Spanish, a phrase that means getting fed up or reaching your limit. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Tennis: Rafael Nadal out of Rome Masters due to injury

Carlos Alcaraz expects Rafa Nadal to perform at a "spectacular level" at the French Open if the 14-times champion can overcome his injury issues ahead of the year's second Grand Slam. Nadal skipped the ongoing Madrid Open after a setback in his recovery from a hip injury sustained at the Australian Open in January. The 22-times major champion also missed tournaments at Indian Wells, Miami, Monte Carlo and Barcelona.

Alcaraz has emerged as favourite for Roland Garros after victories on clay at Buenos Aires and Barcelona but the world number two said Nadal cannot be written off and hopes his fellow Spaniard will return next week in Rome. "Hopefully he will be in Rome and then at Roland Garros, where he will be a rival to beat," Alcaraz told reporters after beating Alexander Zverev 6-1 6-2 on Tuesday to reach the Madrid quarter-finals.

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"Although he hasn't played since Australia, a man who has won a tournament 14 times will always be difficult to beat in that tournament, even if he comes without match rhythm. "It'll also be difficult for him,&nbsp;tennis&nbsp;requires that competitive rhythm, but Rafa is Rafa, even if he arrives without many matches, he'll surely show a spectacular level."

Alcaraz, who turns 20 on Friday, said reports of Nadal's return were encouraging as he hoped to continue learning from the 36-year-old. "I say this as a player and as a&nbsp;tennis&nbsp;lover," Alcaraz said. "It's been a pity all these months where we haven't been able to see him in tournaments."

Carlos Alcaraz expects Rafa Nadal to perform at a "spectacular level" at the French Open if the 14-times champion can overcome his injury issues ahead of the year's second Grand Slam.

Carlos Alcaraz expects Rafa Nadal to perform at a "spectacular level" at the French Open if the 14-times champion can overcome his injury issues ahead of the year's second Grand Slam. Nadal skipped the ongoing Madrid Open after a setback in his recovery from a hip injury sustained at the Australian Open in January. The 22-times major champion also missed tournaments at Indian Wells, Miami, Monte Carlo and Barcelona. Alcaraz has emerged as favourite for Roland Garros after victories on clay at Buenos Aires and Barcelona but the world number two said Nadal cannot be written off and hopes his fellow Spaniard will return next week in Rome. "Hopefully he will be in Rome and then at Roland Garros, where he will be a rival to beat," Alcaraz told reporters after beating Alexander Zverev 6-1 6-2 on Tuesday to reach the Madrid quarter-finals. Also Read: Golf: Rory McIlroy feeling 'fresh' after mental health break "Although he hasn't played since Australia, a man who has won a tournament 14 times will always be difficult to beat in that tournament, even if he comes without match rhythm. "It'll also be difficult for him, tennis requires that competitive rhythm, but Rafa is Rafa, even if he arrives without many matches, he'll surely show a spectacular level." Alcaraz, who turns 20 on Friday, said reports of Nadal's return were encouraging as he hoped to continue learning from the 36-year-old. "I say this as a player and as a tennis lover," Alcaraz said. "It's been a pity all these months where we haven't been able to see him in tournaments."

World number two Carlos Alcaraz says Rafael Nadal still the man to beat at Roland Garros

Rafael Nadal's preparation for a tilt at a record-extending 15th French Open title suffered a further blow when he announced Friday his withdrawal from the ATP Barcelona tournament.

The 36-year-old Spaniard said he had still not recovered full fitness from the hip flexor injury he sustained in the Australian Open in January and which saw him miss this week's Monte Carlo Open.

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Rafa Nadal no disputará el Barcelona Open Banc Sabadell. 
 
“Barcelona es un torneo que es especial para mí”, dice Rafa Nadal. “Aún no me encuentro preparado y sigo mi proceso de preparación para la vuelta a la competición", asegura, explicando su ausencia. 
 
¡Recuperate Rafa! 💙 <a href="https://t.co/bnuw9R9rQC">pic.twitter.com/bnuw9R9rQC</a>
— Barcelona Open Banc Sabadell (@bcnopenbs) <a href="https://twitter.com/bcnopenbs/status/1646800523360698368?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 14, 2023</a></blockquote>
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"I am still not ready and so I continue my preparation process for the return to competition," he tweeted.

The Barcelona tournament starts on Saturday and the French Open on May 28.

Nadal said it hurt him to miss Barcelona.

"Barcelona is a special tournament for me because it is my club by adoption and because playing at home is always a unique feeling," he said.

The 22-time Grand Slam singles champion -- he shares the record with Novak Djokovic -- had originally thought he would be out for up to two months.

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He pulled out of hard-court tournaments at Indian Wells and Miami, with his sights set on a return at the start of the clay court season.

His fitness problems have become an increasing issue since he won his 14th French Open crown last year.

He eased to victory against Casper Ruud despite having his troublesome left foot anaesthesised to counter the pain -- he was diagnosed with Müller-Weiss syndrome aged 18.

He subsequently withdrew from his Wimbledon semi-final due to an abdominal injury.

His long absence from the circuit this time round has seen him drop out of the top 10 for the first time since April 2005 -- he is presently ranked 15th.

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Rafael Nadal's preparation for a tilt at a record-extending 15th French Open title suffered a further blow when he announced Friday his withdrawal from the ATP Barcelona tournament.

Rafael Nadal's preparation for a tilt at a record-extending 15th French Open title suffered a further blow when he announced Friday his withdrawal from the ATP Barcelona tournament. The 36-year-old Spaniard said he had still not recovered full fitness from the hip flexor injury he sustained in the Australian Open in January and which saw him miss this week's Monte Carlo Open. Rafa Nadal no disputará el Barcelona Open Banc Sabadell. “Barcelona es un torneo que es especial para mí”, dice Rafa Nadal. “Aún no me encuentro preparado y sigo mi proceso de preparación para la vuelta a la competición", asegura, explicando su ausencia. ¡Recuperate Rafa! 💙 pic.twitter.com/bnuw9R9rQC — Barcelona Open Banc Sabadell (@bcnopenbs) April 14, 2023 × "I am still not ready and so I continue my preparation process for the return to competition," he tweeted. The Barcelona tournament starts on Saturday and the French Open on May 28. Nadal said it hurt him to miss Barcelona. "Barcelona is a special tournament for me because it is my club by adoption and because playing at home is always a unique feeling," he said. The 22-time Grand Slam singles champion -- he shares the record with Novak Djokovic -- had originally thought he would be out for up to two months. ALSO READ | IPL 2023: R Ashwin fined 25% of match fees after RR's narrow win over CSK! Here's why He pulled out of hard-court tournaments at Indian Wells and Miami, with his sights set on a return at the start of the clay court season. His fitness problems have become an increasing issue since he won his 14th French Open crown last year. He eased to victory against Casper Ruud despite having his troublesome left foot anaesthesised to counter the pain -- he was diagnosed with Müller-Weiss syndrome aged 18. He subsequently withdrew from his Wimbledon semi-final due to an abdominal injury. His long absence from the circuit this time round has seen him drop out of the top 10 for the first time since April 2005 -- he is presently ranked 15th. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Barcelona Open: Rafael Nadal opts out with hip injury ahead of French Open

Rafael Nadal has pulled out of the Monte Carlo Masters and his participation in the French Open is also in doubt. The Spanish world number 14 has won the tournament in Monaco 11 times but is not fit to return to action. His injury isn't getting any better and he hasn't played since the Australian Open in January. This creates fresh doubts over whether Nadal will be able to defend his title at Roland Garros this year and also raises question marks about his career. Nadal will be 37 in June and is unlikely to target playing many tournaments other than grand slams.

Will Nadal retire after the French open? | WION Sports Xtra

Rafael&nbsp;Nadal's preparation for a tilt at a record-extending 15th French Open title suffered a blow when he announced Tuesday his withdrawal from the upcoming Monte Carlo Masters.

"Hi everyone, I'm still not ready to compete at the highest level," the 36-year-old Spaniard tweeted.

"I will not be able to play in one of the most important tournaments of my career, Monte Carlo."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/former-australia-rugby-league-international-jarryd-hayne-found-guilty-of-sexual-assault-at-third-trial-578923">Former Australia rugby league international&nbsp;Jarryd Hayne found guilty of sexual assault at third trial</a>

The Monte Carlo tournament, which&nbsp;Nadal&nbsp;has won 11 times, begins on Saturday, while the French Open starts May 28.

Nadal&nbsp;said he was hoping to return soon from the hip flexor injury he sustained in the Australian Open in January, suffering a second round exit against Mackenzie McDonald.

The 22-time Grand Slam champion pulled out of hard-court tournaments at Indian Wells and Miami, with his sights set on a return at the start of the clay court season.

Record Monte Carlo Masters champion&nbsp;Nadal&nbsp;won the tournament eight consecutive times between 2005 and 2012.

After the tournament's director said&nbsp;Nadal&nbsp;was registered for this year's edition, the Spaniard last week denied he was set to participate.

"I don't know who gets this information, but obviously if it were true, I would confirm it, but, unfortunately, I cannot confirm it," said&nbsp;Nadal&nbsp;at an event.

"Things are moving day by day, and I don't say things that I can't fulfil."

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Rafael Nadal's preparation for a tilt at a record-extending 15th French Open title suffered a blow when he announced Tuesday his withdrawal from the upcoming Monte Carlo Masters.

Rafael Nadal's preparation for a tilt at a record-extending 15th French Open title suffered a blow when he announced Tuesday his withdrawal from the upcoming Monte Carlo Masters. "Hi everyone, I'm still not ready to compete at the highest level," the 36-year-old Spaniard tweeted. "I will not be able to play in one of the most important tournaments of my career, Monte Carlo." Also Read: Former Australia rugby league international Jarryd Hayne found guilty of sexual assault at third trial The Monte Carlo tournament, which Nadal has won 11 times, begins on Saturday, while the French Open starts May 28. Nadal said he was hoping to return soon from the hip flexor injury he sustained in the Australian Open in January, suffering a second round exit against Mackenzie McDonald. The 22-time Grand Slam champion pulled out of hard-court tournaments at Indian Wells and Miami, with his sights set on a return at the start of the clay court season. Record Monte Carlo Masters champion Nadal won the tournament eight consecutive times between 2005 and 2012. After the tournament's director said Nadal was registered for this year's edition, the Spaniard last week denied he was set to participate. "I don't know who gets this information, but obviously if it were true, I would confirm it, but, unfortunately, I cannot confirm it," said Nadal at an event. "Things are moving day by day, and I don't say things that I can't fulfil." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Tennis: Rafael Nadal set to miss Monte Carlo tournament ahead of French Open

Roger Federer won 20 grand slam titles, Rafael Nadal won 22 Grand Slam title and Novak Djokovic just won his 22nd Grand Slam title in Australia in January. Federer has retired, Nadal is constantly struggling with injuries and Djokovic is on a 20 match unbeaten run so, is this the year where he ends the goat debate?

Is this the year Novak Djokovic ends the G.O.A.T debate?

Rafa&nbsp;Nadal&nbsp;said on Tuesday he had decided to withdraw from two upcoming Masters 1000 hardcourt events in Indian Wells and Miami due to injury. The 22-times Grand Slam champion, who has not competed since his Australian Open title defence ended in a second-round loss during which he aggravated a hip problem, said he had started rehab and physiotherapy as instructed by doctors.

"I am sad that I won't be able to compete at Indian Wells nor Miami. Very sad not to be there," read a message posted on&nbsp;Nadal's Twitter account. "I'll miss all my US fans but I hope to see them later this year during the summer swing."

Nadal&nbsp;lost in straight sets to Taylor Fritz in last year's Indian Wells final and then skipped the Miami Open so that he could focus on his claycourt preparation. The 36-year-old Spaniard is a three-times champion at Indian Wells having triumphed in 2007, 2009 and 2013.&nbsp;Nadal&nbsp;has reached the Miami final five times but has never won the title and has not competed there since 2017.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-no-19-nick-kyrgios-withdraws-from-indian-wells-and-miami-with-knee-issue-566673">World No. 19 Nick Kyrgios withdraws from Indian Wells and Miami due to knee issue</a>

"We wish Rafa continued healing, and hope to see him back at the BNP Paribas Open next year," Indian Wells tournament director Tommy Haas said in a statement. At the Australian Open, top seed&nbsp;Nadal&nbsp;tweaked his left hip while running for a backhand in the second set at Rod Laver Arena, and after inspection from a trainer when trailing 6-4 5-3, he went off-court for a medical time-out.

The 22-times Grand Slam champion returned grim-faced to play out the match but his movement was clearly affected, paving the way for American Mackenzie McDonald to end the Spaniard's bid for a third title at Melbourne Park.

Rafa Nadal said on Tuesday he had decided to withdraw from two upcoming Masters 1000 hardcourt events in Indian Wells and Miami due to injury. The 22-times Grand Slam champion, who has not competed since his Australian Open title defence ended in a second-round loss during which he aggravated a hip problem, said he had started rehab and physiotherapy as instructed by doctors.

Rafa Nadal said on Tuesday he had decided to withdraw from two upcoming Masters 1000 hardcourt events in Indian Wells and Miami due to injury. The 22-times Grand Slam champion, who has not competed since his Australian Open title defence ended in a second-round loss during which he aggravated a hip problem, said he had started rehab and physiotherapy as instructed by doctors. "I am sad that I won't be able to compete at Indian Wells nor Miami. Very sad not to be there," read a message posted on Nadal's Twitter account. "I'll miss all my US fans but I hope to see them later this year during the summer swing." Nadal lost in straight sets to Taylor Fritz in last year's Indian Wells final and then skipped the Miami Open so that he could focus on his claycourt preparation. The 36-year-old Spaniard is a three-times champion at Indian Wells having triumphed in 2007, 2009 and 2013. Nadal has reached the Miami final five times but has never won the title and has not competed there since 2017. Also Read: World No. 19 Nick Kyrgios withdraws from Indian Wells and Miami due to knee issue "We wish Rafa continued healing, and hope to see him back at the BNP Paribas Open next year," Indian Wells tournament director Tommy Haas said in a statement. At the Australian Open, top seed Nadal tweaked his left hip while running for a backhand in the second set at Rod Laver Arena, and after inspection from a trainer when trailing 6-4 5-3, he went off-court for a medical time-out. The 22-times Grand Slam champion returned grim-faced to play out the match but his movement was clearly affected, paving the way for American Mackenzie McDonald to end the Spaniard's bid for a third title at Melbourne Park.

'Very sad not to be there': Rafael Nadal withdraws from Indian Wells and Miami due to injury

After his triumph in the Australian Open, Novak Djokovic won his 22 Grand Slam title, levelling with Rafael Nadal. The two long-time rivals will lock horns once again during the forthcoming French Open as it will be a fight between the experienced duo to move a step ahead of the other.

Prior to the French Open, Djokovic hailed young sensation Carlos Alcaraz -- who is one spot below the Serbian in the ATP rankings (i.e. at No. 2 spot) -- but says he doesn't consider him as a rival. The world number one stated that Nadal will 'remain the biggest rival I ever had in my career'.

"Alcaraz is playing at a great level. I cannot call him my main rival. My main rival is still Nadal, you know, even though Alcaraz is obviously number 2 [in the world rankings]. He was number 1, he has won a Slam,” said Djokovic.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cristiano-ronaldo-to-sell-his-manchester-luxury-mansion-demands-a-whopping-amount-565585">Cristiano Ronaldo to sell his Manchester luxury mansion, demands a WHOPPING amount</a>

He further asserted, "Nadal has been the biggest rival, and he probably will remain the biggest rival I ever had in my career."

'Alcaraz&nbsp;is arguably the next biggest thing in our sport'

Djokovic went on to laud the the 19-year-old Alcaraz. The Spaniard has made heads turn in his short career so far, winning the US Open 2022 along with reaching the quarters in French Open and fourth-round in Wimbledon last year. Hence, the Serbian said,&nbsp;"It's amazing that he is able to find the top level right away. That is actually a characteristic of a mature player. He doesn't have so much experience, but he is showing maturity very early on, and with the way he handles himself on and off the court."

Nonetheless, the No. 1 ranked player still believes someone like Alcaraz&nbsp;cannot be termed as his rival as he is doing great things but since the last year and a half only. "He is a great guy and has a very good team of people around him. He deserves all his success and he is, I think, bringing some new, fresh energy into tennis, you know. He is a very dynamic player and personality and is very liked all around the world. So he deserves everything. He is arguably the next biggest thing in our sport or he is already there. I just feel the rivalry with Nadal is something that is difficult to eliminate just because someone is doing great things in the last year and a half, you know,”&nbsp;Djokovic concluded.

After his triumph in the Australian Open, Novak Djokovic won his 22 Grand Slam title, levelling with Rafael Nadal. The two long-time rivals will lock horns once again during the forthcoming French Open as it will be a fight between the experienced duo to move a step ahead of the other.

After his triumph in the Australian Open, Novak Djokovic won his 22 Grand Slam title, levelling with Rafael Nadal. The two long-time rivals will lock horns once again during the forthcoming French Open as it will be a fight between the experienced duo to move a step ahead of the other. Prior to the French Open, Djokovic hailed young sensation Carlos Alcaraz -- who is one spot below the Serbian in the ATP rankings (i.e. at No. 2 spot) -- but says he doesn't consider him as a rival. The world number one stated that Nadal will 'remain the biggest rival I ever had in my career'. "Alcaraz is playing at a great level. I cannot call him my main rival. My main rival is still Nadal, you know, even though Alcaraz is obviously number 2 [in the world rankings]. He was number 1, he has won a Slam,” said Djokovic. Also Read: Cristiano Ronaldo to sell his Manchester luxury mansion, demands a WHOPPING amount He further asserted, "Nadal has been the biggest rival, and he probably will remain the biggest rival I ever had in my career." 'Alcaraz is arguably the next biggest thing in our sport' Djokovic went on to laud the the 19-year-old Alcaraz. The Spaniard has made heads turn in his short career so far, winning the US Open 2022 along with reaching the quarters in French Open and fourth-round in Wimbledon last year. Hence, the Serbian said, "It's amazing that he is able to find the top level right away. That is actually a characteristic of a mature player. He doesn't have so much experience, but he is showing maturity very early on, and with the way he handles himself on and off the court." Nonetheless, the No. 1 ranked player still believes someone like Alcaraz cannot be termed as his rival as he is doing great things but since the last year and a half only. "He is a great guy and has a very good team of people around him. He deserves all his success and he is, I think, bringing some new, fresh energy into tennis, you know. He is a very dynamic player and personality and is very liked all around the world. So he deserves everything. He is arguably the next biggest thing in our sport or he is already there. I just feel the rivalry with Nadal is something that is difficult to eliminate just because someone is doing great things in the last year and a half, you know,” Djokovic concluded.

Rafael Nadal will remain the biggest rival I ever had in my career, says Novak Djokovic

The nominations for the Laureus World Sports Awards 2023 have been announced and this year, the world`s pre-eminent sporting awards ceremony will celebrate not only athletes who thrilled sports fans over the previous 12 months but several who will end their careers with a claim to be the greatest in the history of their sport. Six nominees have been selected across seven nominated Laureus categories, with six inspirational programmes also shortlisted for the Laureus Sport for Good Award. The more than 1,400 members of the Laureus Global Media Nominations Panel decided on all but one category - the shortlist for the Laureus World Sportsperson with a Disability Award was chosen by a specialist panel from the International Paralympic Committee.

But what makes these Awards unique is the final stage of the judging process: a vote by the 71 members of the Laureus World Sports Academy - Olympic champions, world-record breakers, athletes who redefined their sports and who now make up the ultimate jury on sporting greatness.The Award winners in these categories and recipients of the Awards presented at the discretion of the Laureus World Sports Academy will be announced at the Laureus World Sports Awards in the Spring.The nominees for the Laureus World Sportsman of the Year Award spent 2022 climbing to the very pinnacle of their sport. Lionel Messi collected the one prize that had eluded him by leading Argentina to the World Cup. Kylian Mbappe`s hat trick in the final earned him the Golden Boot as the World Cup`s leading goalscorer. Rafael Nadal ended 2022 alone at the top of the all-time list of men`s Grand Slam champions with 22 titles after victory in Australia and France.

Max Verstappen joins Messi and Nadal as past winners of this Award on the 2023 shortlist after defending his Formula One world title. Mondo Duplantis broke the pole vault world record on three occasions and won world titles indoors and out. Steph Curry led the Golden State Warriors to a fourth NBA championship in eight years.Formula One world champion and current Laureus World Sportsman of the Year, Max Verstappen said: "It`s an honour to be nominated for the Laureus World Sportsman of the Year Award. Winning last year was an incredible moment for me: it is such a prestigious accolade, and it means even more when you`re up against the world`s best athletes. To be shortlisted again is an achievement in itself, so thank you to my team Oracle Red Bull Racing for the support throughout our Championship winning year, and thank you to the world`s media for nominating me."

The race for the Laureus World Sportswoman of the Year Award is led by two athletes who lit up the World Championships in Eugene, Oregon: Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce became a five-time champion over 100m, while Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone added the world title to her Olympic crown with a world record in the 400m hurdles. At the World Aquatics Championships in Budapest, Katie Ledecky won four golds, taking her total to 22, a record for a female swimmer. Alexia Putellas led FC Barcelona to a perfect season in the Spanish league and claimed a second Ballon d`Or. Mikaela Shiffrin regained her overall title at the Alpine Ski World Cup, while Iga Swiatek emerged from 2022 as the undisputed No.1 in women`s tennis, winning in Paris and New York. Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce said: "I would like to thank the world`s sports media for this special nomination. This is my sixth nomination for the Laureus World Sportswoman of the Year and it is a great honour. I continue to be inspired by the wider Laureus movement and initiatives in celebrating the power of sports to change the world, which further makes the nomination special. Thank you Laureus and the world`s sports media for nominating me once again."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lionel-messi-and-his-father-wanted-these-six-players-to-be-expelled-from-barcelona-reports-563985">Lionel Messi and his father wanted THESE six players to be expelled from Barcelona: Reports</a>

Two meteoric tennis talents have been nominated for the Laureus World Breakthrough of the Year Award. Carlos Alcaraz gave a preview of the next era in the men`s game, winning the US Open to end the year as the sport`s youngest-ever No.1-ranked player. In the women`s game, Elena Rybakina won her first Grand Slam title at Wimbledon. Scottie Scheffler won The Masters and tied for second at the US Open on his way to becoming golf`s No.1. Also nominated are the Morocco Men`s Football Team who captivated the world on their adventure to the semi-finals of the World Cup; Nathan Chen, the figure skater who added Olympic gold to a world title; and Tobi Amusan, who broke the 100m hurdles world record on the way to claiming Nigeria`s first-ever gold medal at the World Athletics Championships. The nominees for the Laureus World Team of the Year Award include both serial winners and ground-breakers. The Argentina Men`s Football Team won a third World Cup, but the first in a generation led by Lionel Messi. No team has won the Champions League more than Real Madrid, who claimed their 14th title to go with another La Liga championship. The Golden State Warriors` fourth NBA championship in eight years ensured their legacy will last forever.

The Oracle Red Bull Racing ended the eight-year reign of Mercedes with a Max Verstappen-led victory in the Constructors` Championship. The France Men`s Rugby Team had not won the Six Nations Championship since the Grand Slam of 2010 - and they repeated that feat to reclaim the crown in style. And there were no more dramatic champions than the England Women`s Football Team, who on home soil fulfilled their promise to become champions of Europe. The Laureus Sport for Good Award recognises an individual or organisation who, in the opinion of the members of the Laureus World Sports Academy, has made a significant contribution to transforming the lives of children and young people through sport. This year, the inspirational shortlist includes a movement-based psychosocial support intervention developed by War Child, Save the Children and UNICEF the Netherlands that uses physical activity to relieve stress in children affected by war or conflict (TeamUp); one that uses boxing to challenge stereotypes and empowers young women in Kenya (Boxgirls); a football project aimed at educating and elevating the homeless population in Delhi (Slum Soccer); a programme whose mission is to make sport inclusive for people with disabilities in South Africa (Made For More) and a project in Germany that uses action sports to help orphaned and migrant children integrate into new communities (High Five).

Diede de Groot, who completed back-to-back calendar Grand Slams to set a new standard in wheelchair tennis, is nominated for the Laureus World Sportsperson of the Year with a Disability Award. She is joined in an inspirational category by Catherine Debrunner, who broke world records in T53 100m, 200m, 400m and 800m on her home track in Switzerland, then moved up to marathon, winning on her debut in Berlin, and in London. After a break of over two years from competitive swimming, New Zealand`s Cameron Leslie - who also competes in wheelchair rugby as a Wheel Black - won S4 100m freestyle gold at the World Para Swimming Championships. At the Winter Paralympics in China, Declan Farmer led the USA to a third consecutive gold medal in Ice Hockey and was the tournament`s top scorer; Jesper Saltvik Pedersen won four golds on the slopes; and the multi-sport phenomenon Oksana Masters added another chapter to her legend with double gold in the para biathlon.

Three surfers are nominated for the Laureus World Action Sportsperson of the Year Award. Filipe Toledo of Brazil was the world champion for the first time. For Stephanie Gilmore, a previous winner of this Award, it was world championship No.8, while big-wave specialist Justine Dupont continued to thrill in that most daring of disciplines. At the Beijing Winter Olympics, freestyle skier Eileen Gu won two gold medals - in big air and halfpipe, while snowboarder Chloe Kim defended the halfpipe gold she had won as a teenager in 2018. Skateboarder Rayassa Leal was still only 14 as she won Street gold at both the Summer X Games and the World Championships. What we love about sport is not always measured in medals and there are some inspirational stories within the nominations for Laureus World Comeback of the Year. Tiger Woods` return at Augusta, 14 months after a car crash that crushed one of his feet, was as moving as any of his Major wins. Klay Thompson missed two entire seasons through injuries before returning to win his fourth NBA championship with the Golden State Warriors. At the World Athletics Championships, there was no upset greater than Jake Wightman`s defeat of Jakob Ingebrigtsen in the 1500m final.

Norway`s 21-year-old track superstar responded with gold in the 5,000m a few days later. Francesco Bagnaia won his first MotoGP title from a seemingly impossible position - he trailed by 91 points in mid-season. Annemiek van Vleuten started the Tour de France Femmes fighting illness and slumping to the back of the field, before fighting through the ranks to win it all. Christian Eriksen collapsed on the field after suffering cardiac arrest during a Euro 2020 match for Denmark. In February 2022, he returned to the field in the Premier League.&nbsp;

The nominations for the Laureus World Sports Awards 2023 have been announced and this year, the world`s pre-eminent sporting awards ceremony will celebrate not only athletes who thrilled sports fans over the previous 12 months but several who will end their careers with a claim to be the greatest in the history of their sport.

The nominations for the Laureus World Sports Awards 2023 have been announced and this year, the world`s pre-eminent sporting awards ceremony will celebrate not only athletes who thrilled sports fans over the previous 12 months but several who will end their careers with a claim to be the greatest in the history of their sport. Six nominees have been selected across seven nominated Laureus categories, with six inspirational programmes also shortlisted for the Laureus Sport for Good Award. The more than 1,400 members of the Laureus Global Media Nominations Panel decided on all but one category - the shortlist for the Laureus World Sportsperson with a Disability Award was chosen by a specialist panel from the International Paralympic Committee. But what makes these Awards unique is the final stage of the judging process: a vote by the 71 members of the Laureus World Sports Academy - Olympic champions, world-record breakers, athletes who redefined their sports and who now make up the ultimate jury on sporting greatness.The Award winners in these categories and recipients of the Awards presented at the discretion of the Laureus World Sports Academy will be announced at the Laureus World Sports Awards in the Spring.The nominees for the Laureus World Sportsman of the Year Award spent 2022 climbing to the very pinnacle of their sport. Lionel Messi collected the one prize that had eluded him by leading Argentina to the World Cup. Kylian Mbappe`s hat trick in the final earned him the Golden Boot as the World Cup`s leading goalscorer. Rafael Nadal ended 2022 alone at the top of the all-time list of men`s Grand Slam champions with 22 titles after victory in Australia and France. Max Verstappen joins Messi and Nadal as past winners of this Award on the 2023 shortlist after defending his Formula One world title. Mondo Duplantis broke the pole vault world record on three occasions and won world titles indoors and out. Steph Curry led the Golden State Warriors to a fourth NBA championship in eight years.Formula One world champion and current Laureus World Sportsman of the Year, Max Verstappen said: "It`s an honour to be nominated for the Laureus World Sportsman of the Year Award. Winning last year was an incredible moment for me: it is such a prestigious accolade, and it means even more when you`re up against the world`s best athletes. To be shortlisted again is an achievement in itself, so thank you to my team Oracle Red Bull Racing for the support throughout our Championship winning year, and thank you to the world`s media for nominating me." The race for the Laureus World Sportswoman of the Year Award is led by two athletes who lit up the World Championships in Eugene, Oregon: Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce became a five-time champion over 100m, while Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone added the world title to her Olympic crown with a world record in the 400m hurdles. At the World Aquatics Championships in Budapest, Katie Ledecky won four golds, taking her total to 22, a record for a female swimmer. Alexia Putellas led FC Barcelona to a perfect season in the Spanish league and claimed a second Ballon d`Or. Mikaela Shiffrin regained her overall title at the Alpine Ski World Cup, while Iga Swiatek emerged from 2022 as the undisputed No.1 in women`s tennis, winning in Paris and New York. Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce said: "I would like to thank the world`s sports media for this special nomination. This is my sixth nomination for the Laureus World Sportswoman of the Year and it is a great honour. I continue to be inspired by the wider Laureus movement and initiatives in celebrating the power of sports to change the world, which further makes the nomination special. Thank you Laureus and the world`s sports media for nominating me once again." Also Read: Lionel Messi and his father wanted THESE six players to be expelled from Barcelona: Reports Two meteoric tennis talents have been nominated for the Laureus World Breakthrough of the Year Award. Carlos Alcaraz gave a preview of the next era in the men`s game, winning the US Open to end the year as the sport`s youngest-ever No.1-ranked player. In the women`s game, Elena Rybakina won her first Grand Slam title at Wimbledon. Scottie Scheffler won The Masters and tied for second at the US Open on his way to becoming golf`s No.1. Also nominated are the Morocco Men`s Football Team who captivated the world on their adventure to the semi-finals of the World Cup; Nathan Chen, the figure skater who added Olympic gold to a world title; and Tobi Amusan, who broke the 100m hurdles world record on the way to claiming Nigeria`s first-ever gold medal at the World Athletics Championships. The nominees for the Laureus World Team of the Year Award include both serial winners and ground-breakers. The Argentina Men`s Football Team won a third World Cup, but the first in a generation led by Lionel Messi. No team has won the Champions League more than Real Madrid, who claimed their 14th title to go with another La Liga championship. The Golden State Warriors` fourth NBA championship in eight years ensured their legacy will last forever. The Oracle Red Bull Racing ended the eight-year reign of Mercedes with a Max Verstappen-led victory in the Constructors` Championship. The France Men`s Rugby Team had not won the Six Nations Championship since the Grand Slam of 2010 - and they repeated that feat to reclaim the crown in style. And there were no more dramatic champions than the England Women`s Football Team, who on home soil fulfilled their promise to become champions of Europe. The Laureus Sport for Good Award recognises an individual or organisation who, in the opinion of the members of the Laureus World Sports Academy, has made a significant contribution to transforming the lives of children and young people through sport. This year, the inspirational shortlist includes a movement-based psychosocial support intervention developed by War Child, Save the Children and UNICEF the Netherlands that uses physical activity to relieve stress in children affected by war or conflict (TeamUp); one that uses boxing to challenge stereotypes and empowers young women in Kenya (Boxgirls); a football project aimed at educating and elevating the homeless population in Delhi (Slum Soccer); a programme whose mission is to make sport inclusive for people with disabilities in South Africa (Made For More) and a project in Germany that uses action sports to help orphaned and migrant children integrate into new communities (High Five). Diede de Groot, who completed back-to-back calendar Grand Slams to set a new standard in wheelchair tennis, is nominated for the Laureus World Sportsperson of the Year with a Disability Award. She is joined in an inspirational category by Catherine Debrunner, who broke world records in T53 100m, 200m, 400m and 800m on her home track in Switzerland, then moved up to marathon, winning on her debut in Berlin, and in London. After a break of over two years from competitive swimming, New Zealand`s Cameron Leslie - who also competes in wheelchair rugby as a Wheel Black - won S4 100m freestyle gold at the World Para Swimming Championships. At the Winter Paralympics in China, Declan Farmer led the USA to a third consecutive gold medal in Ice Hockey and was the tournament`s top scorer; Jesper Saltvik Pedersen won four golds on the slopes; and the multi-sport phenomenon Oksana Masters added another chapter to her legend with double gold in the para biathlon. Three surfers are nominated for the Laureus World Action Sportsperson of the Year Award. Filipe Toledo of Brazil was the world champion for the first time. For Stephanie Gilmore, a previous winner of this Award, it was world championship No.8, while big-wave specialist Justine Dupont continued to thrill in that most daring of disciplines. At the Beijing Winter Olympics, freestyle skier Eileen Gu won two gold medals - in big air and halfpipe, while snowboarder Chloe Kim defended the halfpipe gold she had won as a teenager in 2018. Skateboarder Rayassa Leal was still only 14 as she won Street gold at both the Summer X Games and the World Championships. What we love about sport is not always measured in medals and there are some inspirational stories within the nominations for Laureus World Comeback of the Year. Tiger Woods` return at Augusta, 14 months after a car crash that crushed one of his feet, was as moving as any of his Major wins. Klay Thompson missed two entire seasons through injuries before returning to win his fourth NBA championship with the Golden State Warriors. At the World Athletics Championships, there was no upset greater than Jake Wightman`s defeat of Jakob Ingebrigtsen in the 1500m final. Norway`s 21-year-old track superstar responded with gold in the 5,000m a few days later. Francesco Bagnaia won his first MotoGP title from a seemingly impossible position - he trailed by 91 points in mid-season. Annemiek van Vleuten started the Tour de France Femmes fighting illness and slumping to the back of the field, before fighting through the ranks to win it all. Christian Eriksen collapsed on the field after suffering cardiac arrest during a Euro 2020 match for Denmark. In February 2022, he returned to the field in the Premier League.

Laureus World Sports Awards 2023: Messi, Nadal, Curry, Swiatek spearhead All-Star nominations

Novak Djokovic in numbers: Grand Slam career of Oz Open champion who equalled Rafael Nadal's tally

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