Rafael Nadal withdraws from 2024 BNP Paribas Open
Rafael Nadal, a 22-time grand slam champion and one of the greatest players of all time, has withdrawn from the 2024 BNP Paribas Open.
Nadal, 37, issued a statement on his decision Wednesday evening.
“It is with great sadness that I have to withdraw from this amazing tournament. Everyone knows how much I love this place and how much I love to play here at Indian Wells. That’s also one of the reasons why I came very early to the desert to practice and try to get ready. I have been working hard and practicing and you all know I took a test this weekend but I don’t find myself ready to play at the highest level at such an important event. It is not an easy decision, it’s a tough one as a matter of fact but I can’t lie to myself and lie to the thousands of fans. I will miss you all and I am sure the tournament will be a great success.”
Nadal will be replaced in the draw by lucky loser Sumit Nagal.
“We are disappointed that Rafa is unable to play in the BNP Paribas Open, but we wish him continued healing and hope he can be back in action again soon,” said BNP Paribas Open Tournament Director Tommy Haas. “He is one of the all-time fan favorites here, and we hope to see him back in Indian Wells again in the future.”
Nadal had to withdraw from the BNP Paribas Open in 2023 due to injury.
In 2022, he made it to the finals, where he lost to SoCal native Taylor Fritz.
Nadal didn't play in Indian Wells in 2020 and 2021, tournaments which were impacted by the pandemic.
His last major run in tennis paradise was in 2019, which ended in a semi-final loss to his longtime rival, Roger Federer.
"Rafa" is a three-time BNP Paribas Open winner, however, his last title came over a decade ago. He has won the tournament in 2007, 2009, and 2013.
He has also won the doubles tournament twice, in 2011 and 2012, both times fellow Spaniard, Marc Lopez.
Patrons who have purchased individual evening session tickets to Stadium 1 for Thursday, March 7– directly from the BNP Paribas Open – may contact the box office regarding a refund.
