It was not uncommon for professional athletes to conceal their injuries. This not only protected the athletes but also prevented their opponents from deliberately targeting their injured areas during competition. At the same time, it avoided having their injuries result in taking economic losses. It was possible to lose endorsements if you were injured.
In professional basketball or professional soccer, for example, many clubs keep the player's medical report confidential. This is to protect both the athlete and the team.
Helen Pepe concealed her own hip injury. Even when she withdrew from the Australian Open recently, she announced that it was because of a strain on her calf muscle.
