"Competing with his own body" - Rafael Nadal's withdrawal from Monte-Carlo Masters 2023 leaves tennis fans in shock

Tennis fans are heartbroken by Rafael Nadal’s announcement that he will not compete in this year’s Monte-Carlo Masters.

Nadal took to social media to announce his decision, revealing that he was still not fit enough to play. With recovery still ongoing, the record 11-time champion made the painful decision not return to Monte-Carlo. The 22-time Grand Slam champion has been out of action due to injury since the 2023 Australian Open.

“Hi everyone; I'm still not ready to compete at the highest level. I will not be able to play in one of the most important tournaments of my career, Monte Carlo. I am not yet in a position to play with the maximum guarantees, and I continue my preparation process, hoping to return soon,” wrote the Spaniard.

The news shocked tennis enthusiasts, as many expected Nadal to return as soon as the clay court season started. One fan remarked that while Djokovic competes with Nadal, the Spaniard has to compete with his own body.

"Djokovic is competing with Nadal. Nadal, with his own body," the fan wrote.

While some fans wished the 36-year-old a speedy recovery, others expressed they were not ready to see him go and wished the 14-time champion would get better enough in time for Roland Garros at the end of the clay season.

"So sad to read this but at this point the only possible decision not to risk anything when not feeling ready. Get better soon. love you and will miss you so much in MC," a fan wrote.

Some tennis fans were not so kind in their reaction, labeling his decision as a publicity stunt to make his French Open campaign an “against all odds” thing.

"Pulling out of MC just to make his Roland Garros win a bigger 'against all odds' thing. Disgusting," one user wrote.

Here are a few more reactions from fans:

Rafael Nadal could start comeback trail at Barcelona Open

Rafael Nadal refused to confirm Monte Carlo return

Rafael Nadal was spotted preparing for the clay court season, practicing at the Rafa Nadal Academy in Mallorca and posting pictures of himself practicing on his social media account. However, the Spaniard had denied rumors of his return to the tour at Monte-Carlo even then.

"I don't know who gets this information. Obviously, if it were true, I would confirm it, but unfortunately, I can't. I'm following my course and I don't know when I'll play again, that's the truth," the 36-year-old had said.

"I'm in a phase of increasing work. I can't confirm that I will play in Monte Carlo, things are seen day by day. I prefer to say things when I really know them," Rafael Nadal added.

The 22-time Grand Slam champion could return to action at the Barcelona Open next, which will take place from April 17-23. The 12-time title winner is part of the initial line-up at the ATP 500 tournament.