Rafael Nadal injured, stopped playing after Brisbane International quarter-finals

Due to injury, Rafael Nadal could not extend his journey at the Brisbane International when he lost 5-7, 7-6 (6), 6-4 to Jordan Thompson in the quarterfinals.

Rafael Nadal was injured while playing at the Brisbane International. (Source: AP)

The match between Nadal and Thompson was intense, lasting 3 hours and 25 minutes, with the 29-year-old Australian tennis player making a spectacular comeback to defeat his Spanish opponent.

Playing his first tournament after nearly 12 months out due to injury, Nadal appeared to be on course for a third straight win after winning the first set and then taking a 6-4 lead in the second set tie-break.

However, Thompson fought back point by point, capitalizing on some unforced errors from Nadal to win the second set.

Nadal was broken early in the third set, suffering a problem with his left thigh and requiring medical attention at 1-4. The Spaniard was able to continue playing but could not rally, Thompson won the third set to close out the quarter-final.

"I completely forgot I saved the match point," Thompson said after the match. "I think this is my first semi-final on hard court and to beat Nadal makes me extremely happy."

Thompson will play second seed Grigor Dimitrov in the semi-finals after the Bulgarian won 6-1, 6-4 against Rinky Hijikata.

Injury at Brisbane International leaves open the possibility of Nadal participating in the 2024 Australian Open.

"I hope I can practice next week and play the Australian Open but I'm not 100% sure," Nadal said.

Although injury contributed to Nadal's defeat, the Spaniard did not want to downplay his opponent's efforts.

"The important thing is that I was able to play three matches in Brisbane. My opponent played very well and everyone has to applaud him," Nadal added.

"I don't think this is the time to talk about that (the extent of the injury). I have to go home satisfied and congratulate my opponent. We'll see how I wake up tomorrow and the day after."

( according to Dan Tri )

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