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
Topics: Abu Dhabi, Middle Eastern tennis news, Rafael Nadal, Rafael Nadal withdraws, Sports, Tennis, tennis illnes, Tennis News