Rafael Nadal Withdraws From Monte Carlo Masters, Delays Comeback

MONACO: Rafael Nadal pulled out of the Monte Carlo Masters on Thursday because of a lingering injury, delaying the start of his clay-court tournament preparation ahead of the French Open and extending his absence that began in January.

The 37-year-old Nadal had hip surgery last summer and has played only three competitive matches — in Brisbane before skipping the Australian Open — this year.

Nadal has won the Monte Carlo Masters 11 times but announced on his social media accounts that he won’t be ready to play when the tournament starts next week.