Nadal, Alcaraz not attending Monte Carlo Masters

"Unfortunately I am not ready to compete and will have to miss one of the most special events where I have always wanted to compete," Nadal wrote on social media on April 4. "Monte Carlo is an important event in my schedule, but I cannot risk injury. I will continue my recovery to be ready to return."

Nadal won 11 times in Monte Carlo - a tournament record. He won 73 matches and lost six at the first clay-based Masters 1000 of the year.

"King of clay" has suffered a hip injury since January, when attending the Australian Open. Earlier this month, the 36-year-old tennis player said the injury was worse than expected. According to Nadal, the tear in the muscle is large and located in a complicated location. The recovery process of the 22 Grand Slam owner is therefore slower than expected.

Nadal's compatriot Carlos Alcaraz also missed the Monte Carlo Masters. He said his body did not feel comfortable after leaving the Miami Open last week. "After seeing my personal doctor in Murcia and getting a thorough physical assessment, I couldn't go to Monte Carlo to start the clay season. I have arthritis in my left hand, and discomfort in my spine. I need it. rest to prepare for the upcoming events."

Alcaraz won a clay tournament this season, in Buenos Aires. He then reached the final in Rio de Janeiro, won the Masters 1000 at Indian Wells and reached the semi-finals of the Miami Open. Alcaraz has won 18 games and lost only two this season.

The Monte Carlo Masters still lacks Felix Auger-Aliassime. The world number seven player injured his left knee and withdrew a few days before the tournament. He shared on Instagram that he hopes to recover at the Madrid Open event - the second clay Masters 1000 tournament of the season.