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Nadal Undergoes Surgery, Misses Australian Open Return

12/12/2025

Summary

Story summary

Rafael Nadal underwent arthroplasty in Barcelona to treat severe osteoarthritis in the right-hand trapeziometacarpal joint.
The procedure aims to relieve pain and restore mobility.
Nadal, 39, said he would miss the Australian Open because of the surgery.
He retired from professional tennis in November 2024 after a career marked by injuries.
Recently, he trained with rising star Alexandra Eala at his Mallorca academy, expressing optimism about returning to the court.

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Story summary

Rafael Nadal underwent arthroplasty in Barcelona to treat severe osteoarthritis in the right-hand trapeziometacarpal joint.
The procedure aims to relieve pain and restore mobility.
Nadal, 39, said he would miss the Australian Open because of the surgery.
He retired from professional tennis in November 2024 after a career marked by injuries.
Recently, he trained with rising star Alexandra Eala at his Mallorca academy, expressing optimism about returning to the court.