Rafael Nadal withdraws from Laver Cup

Veteran Rafael Nadal has withdrawn from the Laver Cup for Team Europe. The Spaniard admitted he won’t be able to give his 100% on the court and thus has decided to pull out of the tournament. Nadal last played in the Laver Cup in 2022 when he partnered with his old rival and friend Roger Federer.

Nadal last played in the Paris Olympics but suffered a straight-set loss against arch-rival Novak Djokovic in the second round. The 22-time Grand Slam champion had also withdrawn from the US Open and Wimbledon earlier in the season. Earlier in the ongoing season, Nadal also could not take part in the Australian Open.

Nadal only played at Roland Garros but suffered a first-round loss against Alexander Zverev. The southpaw hasn’t played consistently in the ongoing season as he has failed to reach the top level of fitness.

In a tweet issued by the event, Nadal said: “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.

“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.

“I wish Team Europe the very best of luck and will be cheering them on from afar.”

Nadal has a 12-7 match record on the season. The Spaniard suffered a hip injury in 2023, which has kept him out of action.

The Laver Cup will run from 20-22 September.