Rafael Nadal’s injury comeback halted by Alex de Minaur at Barcelona Open

Rafael Nadal’s injury comeback at the Barcelona Open came to an end as he fell to Alex de Minaur in a hard-fought match, possibly marking his final appearance at the tournament.

Nadal, a 12-time champion at the event, made a triumphant return to the court after a three-month absence, defeating Flavio Cobolli in straight sets. However, his journey was cut short as he faced a tough challenge against world number 11 De Minaur, ultimately losing in straight sets.

The 37-year-old tennis legend, who has won 22 major titles, has been plagued by injuries in recent years, only playing five matches since January 2023 due to hip and abdominal issues. Nadal has hinted at retirement in 2024 if he is unable to compete regularly, making his appearance at the French Open uncertain.

Despite the loss, Nadal remains hopeful of a return to form in time for Roland Garros, where he has dominated with a record 14 men’s singles titles. He emphasized the importance of preserving his energy for the upcoming tournament during his match against De Minaur.

De Minaur, known for his athleticism, utilized drop shots and smart tactics to outplay Nadal, breaking his serve three times in the second set to secure a convincing victory. The Australian’s strategic gameplay and relentless pressure proved too much for Nadal to handle after his extended absence from competition.

As Nadal left the court to a standing ovation from the Barcelona crowd, it may have marked the end of an era for the Spanish tennis icon at the tournament. Meanwhile, British player Jack Draper made headlines by reaching the quarter-finals at the BMW Open in Munich, showcasing his talent on the clay courts.