Veteran Spanish star Rafael Nadal has withdrawn from the Indian Wells tennis tournament, stating that he is "not ready to play at the highest level." Nadal, 37, returned to tennis competition in Brisbane, Australia, last January after nearly a year out due to a thigh injury, but he had to miss the Australian Open because of another muscle injury. Nadal lost to fellow countryman Carlos Alcaraz in an exhibition match in Las Vegas last Sunday and seemed close to participating in Indian Wells, a tournament he has won three times.
In a statement, Nadal, who has 22 Grand Slam titles, said, "With great sadness and regret, I am forced to withdraw from this wonderful tournament. Everyone knows how much I love this place and how much I love playing here in Indian Wells. This is also one of the reasons I came early to the desert to train and prepare. I have worked hard and trained, and you all know I underwent a test earlier this week, but I don't find myself ready to play at the highest level in such an important event."
The Spanish star confirmed that the decision to withdraw "was not easy. It is actually a difficult decision, but I cannot deceive myself or deceive the thousands of fans. I will miss you all, and I am confident that the tournament will be extremely successful." Indian Wells will see player Sumit Nagal replace Nadal in the tournament.
