Things haven’t gone Rafael Nadal‘s way this season. After making a comeback earlier this year, the Spanish legend suffered yet another injury setback that led him to miss the Australian Open. However, when it looked like he had recovered from his injury, Nadal suffered another major lapse.

Last week, the Spaniard played at the Netflix Slam, an exhibition tennis event against Carlos Alcaraz. It was the 22-time Grand Slam champion’s first match after being out of action for close to two months. In a startling report that has gone viral on social media, it has emerged that Nadal suffered a contracture i.e., tightening in his back shortly after arriving at Indian Wells. As a result, his participation in Indian Wells has been thrown in jeopardy.

Moreover, Nadal didn’t have the best of comebacks as he lost out to his compatriot, Carlos Alcaraz, at the Netflix Slam. In the exhibition match played between them, Alcaraz won 3-6, 6-4, 14-12 against Nadal. As a result, it was a double-blow for the 22-time Grand Slam champion, with a potential spell on the sidelines looming.

DIVE DEEPER: 36-Year-Old Rafael Nadal’s Dwindling Physical Condition Is a ‘Tell-Tale’ Sign of Retirement, Feels American Tennis Veteran

If the reports turn out to be true, it would prove detrimental to Nadal’s chances of making a comeback on the competitive stage. Additionally, at 37, time is running out for him in his career. Moreover, there have been talks going on in the tennis circle regarding his retirement. Even Nadal himself dropped a major hint about ending his career soon.

What did Rafael Nadal say about his retirement?

With the Spaniard out of action, some reports suggested that Nadal will retire soon this year, with the French Open potentially being his final tournament. During an interview, Nadal responded to those rumors, as he preferred to take a step-by-step approach.

Nadal revealed, “This is going to be my last year but I don’t confirm it 100%. I will go day by day. I’ll say it before Roland Garros. I give myself a few months of caution.”

DIVE DEEPER: Rafael Nadal’s Uncle Toni Makes Enticing Olympics Wish for Nephew Amid Strong Retirement Rumors

Meanwhile, Nadal fans would be hoping that the injury rumors turn out to be false and Nadal can play at the Indian Wells Masters. Can the Spaniard have the last laugh before he calls time on his illustrious career? Let us know your views in the comments below.