Rafael Nadal announced he will not compete in the Laver Cup next week in Berlin, citing the need to prioritize his fitness and the team’s success. The 22-time Grand Slam champion, who pulled out of the US Open in August, expressed his disappointment in a statement released by the tournament organizers. “This is a team competition, and to really support Team Europe, I need to do what’s best for them,” Nadal said. The Laver Cup, scheduled for September 20-22, pits Team Europe against Team World, with legendary captains Bjorn Borg and John McEnroe leading the squads.
Nadal, 38, has missed much of the 2023 season due to a hip injury and has participated in only one of the last seven Grand Slams, where he was ousted in the first round of the French Open. Despite his absence, Team Europe will feature other top stars, including Carlos Alcaraz and Daniil Medvedev. The tournament organizers have yet to announce a replacement for Nadal, who has been a key figure in previous Laver Cups, helping secure memorable victories for Team Europe.
The Spanish tennis great expressed regret at missing the event, especially as it marks Borg’s final year as captain of Team Europe. “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,” Nadal added. He wished his team the best of luck and promised to support them from afar as they seek another victory in the popular team event.
Nadal’s next scheduled appearance is at the Six Kings Slam, an elite tennis exhibition in Saudi Arabia, in October. His withdrawal from the Laver Cup highlights his ongoing battle with injuries, but he remains committed to returning to form and competing in future tournaments.
