Much to the disappointment of fans, Rafale Nadal, The King Of Clay, and 22 Grand Slam title winner has withdrawn from Indian Wells. He was supposed to make a comeback in California following his long injury-riddled hiatus. The tennis world was already on edge with speculations flying all over about his return and retirement. But perhaps some saw it coming.

Former American tennis star Andy Roddick had earlier hinted towards this being the last time fans get to see the legend play in his full capacity.

Andy Roddick On Rafael Nadal – ‘This Could Be The Last Time’

In a recent episode of his podcast, Served with Andy Roddick, the American talked about Rafa’s comeback and what it might mean for the tennis world. Expressing his reservations about the legendary Spaniard’s future in the sport, following Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz‘s exhibition match at the Netflix Slam, Roddick says, “I think there was a full active awareness of the fact that this could be the last time anyone sees Rafa. He’s going to play Indian Wells but will be probably his last hardcourt match or tournament ever, we may have just watched his last indoor match ever. Certainly, the last spectacle as an exhibition as an active player.”

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Rafa on his end cited his form for not being able to continue in the hardcourt tournament. the 37-year-old Spaniard said he doesn’t feel prepared enough to compete at “the highest level.” With Roddick’s credible speculation about Rafa’s future in the game turning half-true, the once optimistic view of the fans about the Spaniard’s season has now become gloomy.

This exit from Indian Wells due to his injury woes following his defeat to Alcaraz at the Netflix Slam poses serious questions about his future in the sport.

Rafael Nadal Says It’s Not an Easy Decision To Withdraw

On X, the 37-year-old declared his withdrawal from the tennis tournament, citing a lack of readiness to compete at the pinnacle of his abilities. Nadal wrote “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,” Nadal said in the announcement.

“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.”

Rafael Nadal Confesses to Never Being the Same in Roger Federer’s Absence – ‘Part of My Life Left With Him’

Nadal’s representative, Benito Perez-Barbadillo, clarified that Nadal’s decision to withdraw was not due to a new injury and stated that the Miami Open was never part of his plans. With his focus now shifting to clay, Nadal aims to pursue his dominance on his preferred surface. He will now be eyeing a potential 15th French Open title and a second Olympic gold medal at the Paris Games, where tennis events will be held at Roland Garros.

The tennis world is eager to see Rafael Nadal play, even if it is for the last time.