Distressed by health concerns, Rafael Nadal decides to withdraw from the Laver Cup.
"Bummed to share, I won't be participating in the Laver Cup in Berlin next week," Nadal shared in a statement.
"This is a team event, and to truly support Team Europe, I need to put their needs first, and there are other players better suited to help secure the victory.
"I've got many amazing, emotional recollections from the Laver Cup, and was definitely looking forward to connecting with my teammates and supporting Bjorn in his final year as Captain.
"I wish the best of luck to Team Europe and will be cheering them on from afar."
The Spanish player last competed in the 2024 Paris Olympics, falling short in the second round of men's singles to eventual champion Novak Djokovic. He also paired up with compatriot Carlos Alcaraz in men's doubles, but were eliminated in the quarterfinals.
The Laver Cup hasn't announced Nadal's replacement yet, joining Alexander Zverev, Carlos Alcaraz, Daniil Medvedev, Casper Ruud, and Stefanos Tsitsipas on Bjorn Borg's Team Europe.
Nadal had initially announced in April that he would participate in this year's Laver Cup in Berlin, despite withdrawing from the US Open due to fitness worries. He last participated in the tournament in 2022, teaming up with longtime rival Roger Federer in Federer's final match.
In 2024, Nadal only managed to participate in one grand slam event, the French Open, where he was surprisingly eliminated in the first round by Alexander Zverev.
Following his loss, Nadal hinted at a possible absence next year, "It's tough for me to discuss. I'm not completely sure, but it's quite likely this could be my last time here," Nadal mentioned in his post-match interview.
"It's a significant chance I won't be back here playing at Roland Garros, but I've really enjoyed this experience."
Since his injury at the 2023 Australian Open, the 14-time French Open champion has endured multiple injuries and had to miss most of last year while preparing for a final year on tour.
This year, Nadal played in only seven tournaments including the French Open and the Olympics, but hasn't managed to regain the form of the former world No. 1, recording a 12-7 record.
Despite his current struggles, Nadal has always been an avid supporter of team sports and their importance in fostering camaraderie among players.
Regrettably, despite his love for the sport, he feels it's best for Team Europe to rely on players with a higher probability of securing victories.
