ATP Tour
Nadal announces hand surgery, full of humor
Nadal will return to next generation ATP finals hosted by PIF next week
December 12, 2025
Peter Staples/ATP Tour
Rafael Nadal was honored at Roland Garros earlier this year.
Written by ATP Staff
Rafael Nadal announced on Friday that he recently underwent hand surgery.
The retired legend’s sense of humor was on full display when he joked he wouldn’t be able to play in next month’s Australian Open.
“Looks like I won’t be able to attend @AustralianOpen 2026 😂,” Nadal wrote. “I had to undergo hand surgery due to a problem that has been bothering me for a long time, but I hope to feel better soon 🤗”
i don’t have podré jugar el @australiaopen En Enro😂
He will intervene in the problem at some point to solve the problem, and it will be solved soon! 🤗
It seems I can’t play anymore @Australian Open 2026😂
— Rafael Nadal (@RafaelNadal) December 12, 2025
The Spaniard, who retired last year, will remain away from tennis despite undergoing surgery. Nadal will return to Jeddah to compete in the Next Generation ATP Finals hosted by PIF, which will be held from December 17 to 21.
