Rafael Nadal Pulls Out of Laver Cup, Citing Team Needs and Health Concerns

Rafael Nadal has announced his withdrawal from this month's Laver Cup, stating that he believes there are "other players who can help the team deliver the win" for Team Europe.

The 38-year-old Spanish tennis player has not competed since his loss in the quarter-finals of the men's doubles at the Paris Olympics in August, where he partnered with Carlos Alcaraz.

Nadal, a 22-time Grand Slam singles champion, did not specify any particular injury or health issues in his announcement. However, he has previously indicated that 2024 could be his final season on the professional circuit.

"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 and at this moment there are other players who can help the team deliver the win."

The Laver Cup, featuring a matchup between Team Europe and Team World, will commence in Berlin on 20 September.

Nadal had intended to participate in a full schedule in 2024 but has only played in one of the four Grand Slam tournaments—the French Open—where he was defeated in the first round by Alexander Zverev.

He missed Wimbledon to focus on the Olympics, and was troubled by a thigh issue during the Paris Olympics, resulting in a second-round loss in the men's singles to eventual gold medallist Novak Djokovic.

"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," Nadal remarked. He has made three previous appearances at the Laver Cup.

"I wish Team Europe the very best of luck and will be cheering them on from afar," Nadal added.