Indian Wells 2024: Rafael Nadal Receives the GOAT Tag Alongside a Special Message From Hollywood Icon Ben Stiller

Spanish tennis maestro Rafael Nadal received a heartwarming message from another legend from Hollywood, Ben Stiller. While the news of Rafa’s withdrawal from the ongoing Indian Wells tournament disappointed his fans, Ben Stiller showed an amazing courtesy in celebrating the tennis wizard. After Nadal’s recovery from his knee injury, this season has brought mixed feelings for the Spanish legend. This is also because he couldn’t play in the season’s debut Grand Slam.

Fans were eagerly waiting for Nadal to showcase his indomitable spirit again on the court. However, things didn’t go as planned for the tennis fraternity. Following the news of Nadal’s Indian Wells withdrawal, when many fans were heartbroken, Stiller’s heartwarming wish for Rafa showed that there is still hope!

Ben Stiller’s note shows how much confidence he has in Rafael Nadal despite all the disappointment going on

On his official X (formerly Twitter), Rafael Nadal dropped a message where he confirmed his withdrawal from the BNP Paribas Open 2024. Nadal wrote- “It is with great sadness that I have to withdraw from this amazing tournament at Indian Wells. Everyone knows how much I love this place and how much I love to play here. That’s also one of the reasons why I came very early to the desert to practice and try to get ready.” 

This message stormed the internet fuelling fans’ disappointment over missing this Spanish tennis legend on the court. However, Hollywood’s famous actor and comedian Ben Stiller’s expression was different. Instead of being sad, Stiller commented- “Wishing Rafa all the best.” 

Along with the message, Ben Stiller also dropped a goat emoji to express his true feelings about the tennis legend. Even the legendary coach Boris Becker wished the Spanish tennis legend the best as he announced his official withdrawal from the prestigious tournament. Becker also shared an Instagram story wishing a speedy recovery for Rafa: “Get well soon and recover! We want to see you back on a tennis court”

However, keeping aside the disappointment, a lot of anticipation is going on among fans regarding Rafa’s recent withdrawal.

Why did Nadal withdraw from the Indian Wells tournament?

Nadal’s decision has truly surprised his fans. However, the legend has dropped his reasons about it. Nadal said– “I have been working hard and practicing and you all know I took a test this weekend but I don’t find myself ready to play at the highest level at such an important event.  It is not an easy decision, it’s a tough one as a matter of fact but I can’t lie to myself and lie to the thousands of fans. I will miss you all and I am sure the tournament will be a great success.” 

Nadal’s statement expressed that this tennis legend is yet to be prepared to play such prestigious tournaments after a year of break.

Ben Stiller’s wish for Rafael Nadal expressed that many big television personalities follow and love the tennis legend. It also showed the dedication of the tennis legend to not perform in a tournament without full confidence. What do you think about it?

Read more: Rafael Nadal Pulls Off a Spectacular Comeback Against Sebastian Korda at Indian Wells 2022