Rafael Nadal has announced his withdrawal from the upcoming Laver Cup in Berlin, prioritizing his long-term fitness and recovery. The 38-year-old tennis legend expressed his disappointment, emphasizing the importance of supporting Team Europe while acknowledging that other players are better positioned to help secure a victory.
Nadal last competed at the 2024 Paris Summer Olympics, where he was defeated by Novak Djokovic in the second round. Following the Olympics, he also skipped the U.S. Open due to ongoing fitness concerns. Despite his setbacks, Nadal had aimed to make a strong return at the September Laver Cup.
\"I'm really disappointed to share that I won't be able to compete at the Laver Cup in Berlin next week. This is a team competition and to really support Team Europe, I need to do what's best for them and at this moment there are other players who can help the team deliver the win,\" Nadal stated.
Reflecting on his history with the event, Nadal shared, \"I have so many great, emotional memories from playing Laver Cup and I was really looking forward to being with my teammates and with Bjorn in his final year as Captain.\" He concluded by wishing Team Europe the best of luck and pledging his support from afar.
Nadal's last appearance at the Laver Cup was in 2022, where he teamed up with Roger Federer in what marked the Swiss great's final match. Once a dominant force in tennis with 22 Grand Slam titles, Nadal has struggled with injuries over the past two years, resulting in a drop outside the top 150 in the rankings.
Reference(s):
Nadal pulls out of Laver Cup as he battles to regain full fitness
cgtn.com
