In a bitter blow for fans hoping to see a Fedal team up in the Laver Cup, Rafael Nadal has pulled out. Apparently, it was a wrist injury and on the advice of doctors, the Spaniard elected to pull out.
Rafael Nadal revealed in a statement, “I’ve had an amazing time playing here at the Laver Cup and I’m so disappointed I’m not able to play again today, but I have some inflammation in my hand and I need to rest. The atmosphere has been amazing here in Geneva and of course I’m going to be there for all my teammates and do everything I can to support them and help Team Europe win the Laver Cup.”
As per the rules, Team Europe captain, Bjorn Borg was duly notified and the necessary action taken, even opposing team captain, John McEnroe was notified as well. In other words, Greek tennis star, Stefanos Tsitsipas will take Nadal’s place alongside Roger Federer in the doubles match. Meanwhile, Dominic Thiem will face Nick Kyrgios in the singles competition.
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No Fedal together today as Nadal is injured. Federer/Tsitsipas in doubles, Thiem vs Kyrgios. pic.twitter.com/HpRL4A459g
— José Morgado (@josemorgado) September 22, 2019
It was worth noting that Rafael Nadal had pushed to play in the Laver Cup in order to uphold a promise to Federer.
Prior to that, Nadal won his singles match against Milos Raonic, but lost in the doubles, partnered with Tsitsipas.
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Now, another burning question is, will Nadal be forced to miss the final day of the Laver Cup? The Spaniard said, “Hopefully not. Let’s see tomorrow how things go. After New York, the body always feels down a little bit.”
“Some issues can happen but here I am. I’m trying hard to be ready for when the team need me. Let’s see. All of the matches are very difficult.”
“If I am not at 100 per cent, there is another player. But I am confident I can help.”
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