Rafael Nadal hosts golf session for his academy students after withdrawing from 2023 French Open

Rafael Nadal was recently spotted at a golf club, just days after withdrawing from the 2023 French Open due to an injury.

The Spaniard, who owns the Rafa Nadal Academy in his hometown of Manacor, hosted a fun afternoon of golf for a few students from his academy. He took the pack to the Son Servera Golf Club near his hometown, which he is known to do frequently during his off days.

The academy’s social media page shared the details about the 22-time Major winner’s day on the golf course with his batch of aspiring tennis players.

“Learning a different sport! Thanks to @GolfSonServera for a very fun afternoon! And with a very special host! @RafaelNadal,” the post caption read.

Rafael Nadal is no stranger to golf. The Spaniard has previously expressed his passion for the sport and has revealed that he enjoys spending time on the golf course with friends and family. The former World No. 1 has even excelled in numerous golfing tournaments.

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"I will be able to enjoy not having schedules" – Rafael Nadal on his 2023 French Open withdrawal

The Spaniard at the 2023 Australian Open

Rafael Nadal’s 2023 French Open withdrawal will mark the first time that the 14-time champion will miss the event since his tournament debut and maiden Grand Slam win in 2005.

The 36-year-old was last seen in action during the 2023 Australian Open, where he suffered a hip injury, and has been recuperating since. The Spaniard previously revealed that his injury is taking longer to heal than expected.

In his recent French Open withdrawal press conference, he disclosed that he will continue his tournament absence past the claycourt Major, as he remains unfit.

“I have no intention of continuing to play for the next few months. In recent years, although the results have been of my first level, my day-to-day life has been at a very low level,” the former World No. 1 said in his recent press conference.

The Spaniard declared that he will be halting his training for a few months so as to enjoy some downtime as his body heals.

“I have to put a point and aside to my sports career. I am going to try to regenerate my body. I'm not going to set a return date. When he's ready, he'll try to be there,” the tennis legend conveyed, adding, "I'm going to stop, I'm not going to train. There have been months of many moments of frustration. There is a moment in which one must put a stop to it.”

Rafael Nadal also suggested that he will be taking things slowly as he aims for one final comeback tour in 2024 before he hangs his racquet.

“Now I have plans for the following months, I will be able to enjoy not having schedules and after this last final firecracker, let it be worthwhile for this last year to be special,” he said.