Rafael Nadal has once again entered the operating room, this time to address a long-standing hand issue that's been a source of ongoing distress. The 22-time Grand Slam champion underwent surgery in Barcelona to treat severe osteoarthritis affecting the trapeziometacarpal joint in his right hand. The procedure, an arthroplasty, aims to relieve pain and restore smooth movement to the joint. The operation was performed by Dr. Alex Lluch at Teknon Medical Centre, with Nadal’s personal physician, Angel Ruiz-Cotorro, and Dr. Vilaro supervising the case.
This marks yet another chapter in a career shaped by overcoming persistent physical challenges. Nadal lightened the mood on social media, joking about his latest hurdle: “Looks like I won’t be able to play the Australian Open 2026. I had to undergo hand surgery because of an issue I’d been dealing with for a long time, but I hope to be fine soon!” It’s a signature Nadal moment—finding humor even when facing a medical setback.
Meanwhile, Nadal’s longtime rival Roger Federer is set to travel Down Under next month for the Australian Open’s inaugural Opening Ceremony. He’s scheduled to play an exhibition match alongside legends such as Andre Agassi, Pat Rafter, and Lleyton Hewitt.
Nadal retired in November 2024, but recently returned to the court for a brief session a year after announcing his retirement at the Davis Cup Finals. He shared a clip of hitting with rising star Alexandra Eala at his Mallorca academy, writing, “One year later, it felt great to be back on a tennis court! It was great to practice with you @AlexEala05! Next time I will be stronger.” Eala, a product of the Rafa Nadal Academy, has enjoyed a breakout season on the WTA Tour and is currently ranked world No. 52.
The news of Nadal’s surgery comes just days before he is slated to appear at the Next Gen ATP Finals in Jeddah, where he serves as an ambassador for the Saudi Tennis Federation. “Coming back to Jeddah for the Next Gen ATP Finals is something I am looking forward to. I’ve received the warmest of welcomes in Saudi Arabia and I feel there is real energy for tennis,” Nadal said. He reaffirmed his commitment to mentoring younger players, adding, “As I’ve been saying, my goal is to inspire the next generation, in Saudi Arabia and around the world.”
