Rafael Nadal Withdraws From Abu Dhabi Due To Stomach Virus

Written by: Staff on 26th December 2012

Rafael Nadal will not compete in 2012 Mubadala World Tennis Championship

Rafael Nadal Withdraws From Abu Dhabi Due To Stomach Virus

epa03517830 File -- File photo showing Spanish Rafael Nadal during his match against Swiss Roger Federer at Mubadala World Tennis Championship in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, 31 December 2011. The tournament organizers announced on 25 December 2012 that 'Rafael Nadal has been forced to make a last-minute withdrawal from the 2012 event due to a stomach virus,' and 'was advised by doctors not to travel or compete due to the illness.' Nadal has not played since June 2012, when he was eliminated in Wimbledon's 2nd round by Czech Lukas Rosol. He was supposed to come back after a successful knee injury rehab. EPA/ALI HAIDER |

Rafael Nadal has made a late withdrawal from the Abu Dhabi exhibition starting on Thursday, citing a stomach virus. The No. 4 last played six months ago when he lost early at Wimbledon and has not been back on court since due to a left knee injury which he insists if find now.

“We are disappointed to announce that two-time Champion Rafael Nadal has been forced to withdraw due to a stomach virus,” the tournament said on its website. “Please join us in wishing Rafa a speedy recovery.”

Nadal had been due to play on Friday after a bye and was expected on court for the first time since he lost in late June at Wimbledon then sat out the rest of the season with a left knee injury.

Nadal also gave the bad news on his Facebook page, with no indication on when he would return. “I am very disappointed that I will not be able to compete this year in Abu Dhabi. I was really excited about returning to play and I always have a wonderful experience at the event and this is the first time I will miss the tournament.

“My rehab has gone well, my knee feels good and I was looking forward to competing.

“Unfortunately doctors have informed me that my body needs to rest in order to fight this stomach virus. I would like to say sorry to all my fans in the United Arab Emirates and around the world, but I hope to play and win in Abu Dhabi again next year.”

Novak Djokovic heads the field at the December 27-29 event, along with Andy Murray and Spain’s David Ferrer.

©Daily Tennis News Wire

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