No matter how many times you repeat to yourself 'Rafael Nadal is missing the French Open', it still seems almost impossible.
Even the fact it is a physical issue that is keeping him out is almost inconceivable when you consider he won the title last year with a completely left numb foot because of multiple pain-killing injections.
In announcing on Thursday that he would be missing his favourite event for the first time in 19 years, he also signalled his intention to retire at the end of the 2024 season.
His plan to take some time out of the game now - he was not sure if it would be two months, four months, whatever - is aimed at ensuring he is in the best shape for a final year of 'goodbyes' at the most important tournaments for him.