Rafael Nadal has announced his withdrawal from the upcoming Laver Cup due to ongoing fitness concerns, stating that he would not be able to perform at his best. The decision comes after his last appearance at the Paris Olympics, where he suffered a defeat in the second round against Novak Djokovic.
The 22-time Grand Slam champion opted to skip the US Open to focus on his recovery and regain full fitness. Nadal had initially targeted a return at the Laver Cup in Berlin, scheduled for September 20-22.
In a statement, Nadal expressed his disappointment at missing the event, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing the team's success. He acknowledged that other players are better positioned to contribute to Team Europe's victory in his current condition.
Nadal highlighted his fond memories of past Laver Cup experiences and expressed his support for the team despite his absence. He particularly mentioned his anticipation of reuniting with his teammates and honoring Bjorn Borg in his final year as Captain.
The Spanish tennis star last participated in the Laver Cup in 2022, partnering with his longtime rival Roger Federer in a memorable match. Nadal's prolonged struggle with injuries has seen him drop outside the top 150 in the world rankings, reflecting the challenges he has faced over the past two years.
