Spanish tennis player Rafa Nadal underwent an arthroscopy to treat his left psoas tendon injury, and the surgery was reportedly successful. However, he is expected to be out of action for five months, which hinders his goal of returning by the end of the year.
The intervention consisted of cleaning the fibrotic and degenerated areas of the tendon as well as suturing it to properly reinforce it. A previous injury to the labrum of his left hip was also addressed, which is expected to contribute to a better evolution of the tendon. The recovery process is estimated to take five months, respecting the biological time of the structure. Nadal will begin his rehabilitation in the next few hours.
Dr. Angel Ruiz Cotorro, Nadal’s doctor, commented that the tennis player is not happy and must assimilate the situation, but is confident in his ability to accept it quickly and begin his recovery in a positive way. During the first ten days, his mobility will be limited, but he will be able to exercise in the pool and on a bicycle soon. After six weeks, he will be evaluated based on how he progresses with testing.
Although a recovery period of five months was mentioned, it was acknowledged that it may take an additional month for Nadal to be fully fit. The Spanish tennis player, who turned 37 that day, has not competed since January due to a psoas injury in his left leg.
Initially, his recovery was expected to last six to eight weeks, but the layoff was extended, and Nadal announced that he would not participate in Roland Garros. He also stated that he planned to take a career break before facing a possible farewell to the professional circuit in 2024. Despite the challenges and recurring aches and pains, Nadal is determined to return and enjoy his final season.
Although an exact date for his return has not been set, Nadal has left open the possibility of trying to participate in the Davis Cup later this year. However, this seems to be complicated by the new recovery deadlines that have been set.