The 2024 Laver Cup won’t be seeing the magic of Rafael Nadal. Reason? The Mallorcan legend will not participate because of his inadequate form. While Nadal’s withdrawal disappointed his supporters, the fraternity became anxious about the Spaniard’s replacement. In a recent announcement, the tournament committee introduced Nadal’s tennis buddy, highlighting how he would be a splendid choice for Team Europe.

Grigor Dimitrov joined Team Europe in the upcoming Laver Cup tournament. According to an Italian journalist Giovanni Pelazzo, this Bulgarian ATP star replaced Rafael Nadal after the Spaniard suddenly withdrew his name. While his statement didn’t hint at his physical fitness, his sudden withdrawal made his supporters anxious. However, Nadal yesterday tweeted that he is completely fine and believes his form isn’t adequate to help Team Europe win. After his recent tweet, the fraternity understood his urge for Europe to win the cup led to this decision.

After Nadal’s withdrawal, Dimitrov joined his place on the team. He has played in the tournament before. Famous for his elegant one-handed backhand, Dimitrov has shown consistency in the ATP tour. His presence with Carlos Alcaraz and Daniil Medvedev will surely add depth to Team Europe. The Laver Cup’s official X profile shared this news with the fraternity.

On the other hand, Rafael Nadal wanted to play in the tournament under Bjorn Borg’s final captaincy. However, things didn’t work out well. Nevertheless, he expressed his wish to cheer for the team. Grigor Dimitrov expressed his delight in participating in the prestigious tournament. While Nadal supporters have reasons to be sad, his withdrawal opened a door for Dimitrov.

Grigor Dimitrov feels an “honor” to participate in the 2024 Laver Cup

Nadal’s withdrawal from what was likely to be his career’s last Laver Cup brought Dimitrov. The Bulgarian ATP star expressed great happiness at representing Team Europe at the prestigious tournament. “It’s an honor to be part of such a prestigious event and to represent Team Europe. I look forward to competing alongside some of the best players in the world and contributing to our success,” he said. Known for his charismatic playstyle often compared to Federer’s, Dimitrov becomes an asset for Team Europe.

Rafael Nadal and Grigor Dimitrov share a beautiful friendship. In 2020, Dimitrov mentioned how Rafa helped him during his life’s tough situations. “He’s a very special guy. I’ve really learnt a lot from him in the past four or five years. I was going through a little bit of a tough time and I practiced with him for a little bit and my form increased,” said Dimitrov. Given that he will step into Nadal’s shoes, his responsibility increases in the upcoming Laver Cup tournament. On the other hand, the Mallorcan legend revealed spending some off-the-court moments with the Bulgarian in 2020. “We have been in Mallorca together. We go out in the boat and catch some fish. Tennis is not forever but the friendship is.”

Grigor Dimitrov’s arrival in the place of Rafael Nadal might be disappointing for many, but it brings great hope for Team Europe. The way Dimitrov shares a close bond with Nadal, the fraternity hopes he could take the Spaniard’s role perfectly to help Team Europe win. What are the chances do you think?