Rafael Nadal has announced that he will not be participating in the upcoming Laver Cup in Berlin next week, according to a statement released by the tournament organizers. The 22-time Grand Slam champion revealed his decision on Thursday, expressing his disappointment about missing the event, which features a team competition between Europe and the World. This year's Laver Cup will see Bjorn Borg and John McEnroe continue as captains of the two six-player teams, maintaining their roles from previous editions.
Nadal, who withdrew from the US Open in August due to concerns about his performance, stated that he is unable to compete at the Laver Cup. The 38-year-old Spanish tennis icon emphasized that, given the team-based nature of the competition, it is best for Team Europe to have players who are fully fit to contribute to their success. Nadal acknowledged the presence of other players who can support the team effectively in his absence.
Having struggled with a hip injury throughout most of the 2023 season, Nadal has only participated in one of the last seven Grand Slam events and was eliminated in the first round of the French Open earlier this year. The Laver Cup organizers will soon announce a replacement for Nadal, who will join top players like Carlos Alcaraz and Daniil Medvedev on Team Europe.
In his statement, Nadal reflected on his fond memories of the Laver Cup and his anticipation of working with his teammates and captain Bjorn Borg in his final year. Although he will not be present, Nadal expressed his support for the team and extended his best wishes. He is scheduled to return to action at the Six Kings Slam, a prestigious tennis exhibition in Saudi Arabia, in October.
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