Rafael Nadal, Carlos Alcaraz and Felix Auger-Aliassime pull out of Monte-Carlo Masters 2023

Rafael Nadal, Carlos Alcaraz and Felix Auger-Aliassime have all pulled out of the 2023 Monte-Carlo Masters, leaving the tournament devoid of three of the biggest stars in world tennis at the moment.

On Tuesday, April 4, the trio took to social media to announce their individual withdrawal from the first clay Masters 1000 event of the year, which will be held between April 8-16.

In their stead, Marc-Andrea Huesler, Nicolas Jarry and Mackenzie McDonald have entered the main draw at Monte-Carlo.

"I am still not prepared to compete at highest level" – Rafael Nadal in his Monte-Carlo Masters withdrawal statement

Rafael Nadal has won the Masters 1000 title 11 times

Rafael Nadal, who hasn’t contested a single event since his early exit at this year’s Australian Open, stated that he was still not at his 100% to bid for the title, which he has won a record 11 times in his career.

The Spaniard suffered a hip injury during his run at Melbourne Park and has been recuperating since.

“Hello everyone, I am still not prepared to compete at the highest level so I will not be able to play in one of the most important tournaments of my career, Monte Carlo. Unfortunately I am not yet able to play with maximum guarantees,” Rafael Nadal said.

Nadal concluded on a hopeful note of returning to action on the tour soon.

“I continue my process of recovery and preparation, hoping to return to competition soon,” Rafael Nadal said.

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"I finished my last match in Miami with physical discomfort" – Carlos Alcaraz in his Monte-Carlo Masters withdrawal statement

Carlos Alcaraz at the Masters 1000 event in 2023

Indian Wells champion Carlos Alcaraz, who was the defending champion in Miami, fell short of his title defense, suffering a semifinal loss against arch-rival Jannik Sinner.

The 19-year-old Spaniard revealed he had to withdraw from the upcoming Monte-Carlo Masters after the grueling three-hour battle took a toll on his body, adding that he was diagnosed with post-traumatic arthritis upon return to his hometown of Murcia.

“After two months abroad, I am happy to return home but sad because I finished my last match in Miami with physical discomfort. After visiting my doctor @drlopezmartinez in Murcia today and being evaluated, I will not be able to go to Monte Carlo to start the clay court tour,” Carlos Alcaraz said.

“I have post-traumatic arthritis in my left hand and muscular discomfort in the spine that needs rest to prepare for everything that is to come. See you in 2024 @rolexmontecarlomasters!,” Carlos Alcaraz added.

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"I have been struggling with my left knee" – Felix Auger-Aliassime in his Monte-Carlo Masters withdrawal statement

Felix Auger-Aliassime at the Masters 1000 event in 2023

Felix Auger-Aliassime followed suit in announcing his Monte-Carlo Masters absence. The Canadian tennis player revealed that he has been facing left knee discomfort in recent weeks and will be resting and healing in order to have a successful clay season that lies ahead.

The 22-year-old concluded on an optimistic note, declaring his presence at the Masters 1000 event in Madrid between April 24- May 7.

“Unfortunately I have to announce my retirement from the @rolexmontecarlomasters this year. It is an event that I look forward to each year however, I have been struggling with my left knee for the past few weeks,” Felix Auger-Aliassime said.

“[I] decided it was the smartest decision to take some time off so I’m able to fully heal and recover before my next tournament at the @mutuamadridopen. Thank you as always for your support and I look forward to seeing you back on court soon,” Felix Auger-Aliassime added.