Picture Credit: Twitter/@LaverCup
Spanish tennis stalwart Rafael Nadal has decided to withdraw from the 2022 Laver Cup after playing the doubles with long-time rival Roger Federer, who was playing his last match. Nadal will be replaced by British tennis star Cameron Norrie in the line-up as he will take on Team World's highest-ranked player Taylor Fritz.
Similarly, Italy’s Matteo Berrettini will be taking Roger Federer’s place for the singles tie on Day 2 of the Laver Cup. Both Berrettini and Norrie will get on the court in the first session on Day 2 while Novak Djokovic will begin the second session with his singles tie against Frances Tiafoe. Djokovic will then team up with the Italian Berrettini for doubles.
Addressing his withdrawal from the tournament in the post-match presser Nadal said, “I am not doing well. It's been a tough time for me, I hardly slept, I was stressful. Luckily everything is okay and I was able to get here.”
Talking about the double games involving Federer and Nadal, the Team Europe pair suffered a thrilling 4-6, 7-6(2), 11-9 defeat against the American duo of Jack Sock and Frances Tiafoe. After the match, Rafa opened up about teaming up with Federer for his final career match as he explained their relationship over all these years.
"We have always had a very easy and positive relationship since the beginning. I don't know, but since the beginning, I think the feelings have been positive. They have even grown in a better way over the years," Nadal said.
He then opened up about how they have worked together off the court for their foundations. He said, "In some way, when you have a rivalry like we have had, we have played exhibitions for our foundations, we have shared important moments in the history of this sport. On court and off court we were together, on the council for a long time. So we were able to build this relationship in a very positive way. He has been a very positive example for everyone, and for me personally, without a doubt."