“If we respect the recovery times, I think he will be able to recover” – Nadal’s doctor gives optimistic prognosis after surgery

The Spaniard has not played since January’s Australian Open but his doctors are optimistic about a successful return

Rafael Nadal at the 2023 Australian Open Image Credit: Rafael Nadal at the 2023 Australian Open

June 5, 2023

Angel Ruiz Cotorro, one of the doctors who was present during the surgery of 22-time Grand Slam champion Rafael Nadal, has given an encouraging outlook on the Spaniard’s return to the tour.

Nadal underwent surgery on Saturday for his injured hip which has kept him away from the sport since January’s Australian Open. He was also forced to withdraw from the ongoing Roland-Garros, a tournament he has won a record-breaking 14 times in his career.

It’s five months, but we’re not pushing for a particular date.
Angel Ruiz Cotorro

Cotorro revealed that Nadal decided to undergo surgery only recently after exhausting other options.

“The decision to operate was made recently,” Cotorro told the ATP Tour website. “We tried all the conservative options, which is how these injuries are normally treated. But when the situation doesn’t work, you have to take decisions.”

“I’m happy because we’ve done what we wanted to… We’re very satisfied and if we respect the recovery times, I think he will be able to recover. Rushing is never a good idea. It’s five months, but we’re not pushing for a particular date.”

Ruiz Cotorro also said the chances of success are quite high. “We have a high chance of success. All the remaining part of the tendon is healthy and will regenerate, but it needs time to regenerate and it needs to be treated in a way that allows that to happen.”

“He will be in a period of limited rehabilitation for 10 days, then he will start to work in the pool and on the bike,” he said. “Exercise that affects the tendon must be eliminated. From there, there is a healing period, which is always determined by biology. The first six weeks will be the most important. From there, we’ll do tests and see how to continue with the recovery.”

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