Nadal withdraws from Laver Cup, citing Team Europe’s best interests

Rafael Nadal has announced his withdrawal from this month’s Laver Cup, stating that he believes other players are better suited to help Team Europe secure a win. The 38-year-old Spaniard, a 22-time Grand Slam singles champion, has not competed since his quarter-final loss alongside Carlos Alcaraz in the men’s doubles at the Paris Olympics in August.

While Nadal did not specify any injury or health issues, he has previously hinted that 2024 could be his final season on tour. “I’m really disappointed to share that I won’t be able to compete at the Laver Cup in Berlin next week,” Nadal said. “This is a team competition, and to really support Team Europe, I need to do what’s best for them. At this moment, there are other players who can help the team deliver the win.”

The Laver Cup, a competition pitting Team Europe against Team World, will take place in Berlin starting on 20 September. Nadal’s absence marks another setback in a challenging year where he has struggled with injuries and form.

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Nadal had hoped to play a full schedule in 2024 but managed to compete in only one of the four majors this season. At the French Open, he suffered a first-round loss to Alexander Zverev. After skipping Wimbledon to focus on the Olympics, he was troubled by a thigh issue in Paris, leading to a second-round singles loss to Novak Djokovic, who went on to win gold.

Reflecting on his decision, Nadal expressed his regret at missing out on the event: “I have so many great, emotional memories from playing Laver Cup, and I was really looking forward to being with my teammates and with Bjorn in his final year as captain,” said Nadal, who has appeared in the Laver Cup three times. “I wish Team Europe the very best of luck and will be cheering them on from afar.”