Rafael Nadal’s spokesperson has confirmed to ESPN that Nadal has withdrawn from the Lavender Cup on Saturday for personal reasons.
For most of the summer, Nadal was suffering from an abdominal injury. He withdrew due to the pain before his Wimbledon semifinal and continued to have issues with it after his defeat in the fourth round of the U.S. Open.
Take care of yourself and your family Rafa. This is the most important thing right now. Be back when you’ll be ready for it. 🙏🏼💙 @RafaelNadal
— Irene🇮🇹🇦🇷🇺🇦🤍🖤💙❤️#STRON9ER #L10🐐#RAFA👑 (@irejdoc1897) September 24, 2022
On Saturday morning, Nadal told reporters at London’s O2 Arena about his decision to return home.
“I’m not good, I’m not good,” Nadal said. “The truth is these have been difficult weeks in that sense. Few, very few hours of sleep, a bit of stress in general, slightly more difficult situations than usual at home.”
Nadal has withdrawn from the Laver Cup. I think too his credit he didn't look 100% fit to me, but made a big effort to fly from Spain to London when his wife is expecting very shortly to pay his respects to Roger and be part of a momentous and historic occasion. Fair play to him. https://t.co/7Uvwbg1txs
— Pavvy G (@pavyg) September 24, 2022
Nadal said he has to deal with personal issues on top of professional stress. He and his wife, Maria Francisca Perello, are expecting their first child, therefore he wants to spend more time with her.
“But, well, luckily everything is good and we are much more calm,” Nadal added. “And in that sense, I’ve been able to come here, which for me was the most important thing.”
Mary and baby are a priority now. Rafa is a loyal friend and colleague to Roger 💟
— Lizzy P Rose (@lizzyprose) September 24, 2022
Teaming up with Federer for final game
Before Nadal’s withdrawal, Nadal teamed up with Roger Federer to compete in the team battle in London on Friday to mark Federer’s retirement from tennis. Standing ovations greeted Federer and Nadal as they entered the O2 Arena. A tribute film featuring Nadal, Federer’s mother, Lynette, and other participants was played in the stadium during the first change of ends.
So Rafa wasn’t going to play but showed up just for Roger. https://t.co/sA2TCMIHsP
— Reservoir Duck 🍉 (@DuckDaBlackSwan) September 24, 2022
Federer had not played for 14 months after his defeat to Hurbert Hurkacz at Wimbledon and his knee surgery. According to the Guardian, Federer was unsure of his performance after a long break.
Federer’s hands remained fragile, preventing him from moving at full speed. He still performed a solid forehand volley winner and maintained his pace at the net throughout the first set.
Despite a strong start and a match point on Federer’s serve at 9-8, Federer and Nadal lost. The loss proved too much for Federer and Nadal, causing them to weep openly. Federer embraced his teammates and former rivals during the ceremony before finally going to his family.
Rafa Nadal and Roger Federer in tears after Federer’s retirement is the best sports moment you’ll see in some time.
Ultimate respect. 🐐🐐 pic.twitter.com/fUeY8wQSTM
— Barstool Sports (@barstoolsports) September 23, 2022
“I enjoyed tying my shoes one more time,” Federer said. “The match was great. I couldn’t be happier. It’s been wonderful. And of course, playing with Rafa on the same team and having the guys – everybody here, all the legends – thank you.”
Federer gave a heartfelt homage to his wife, Mirka, after reminiscing on the “perfect journey” of his career. He said she could’ve stopped him long ago, but she didn’t. His wife kept him going and supported him.
Just tells you how much Federer means to him https://t.co/PFKZvsTKzI
— Kevin De Treble (@MancityGP) September 24, 2022
“I was able to remind myself always on the court again how wonderful this is,” Federer said. “This is not the end-end – life goes on. I’m healthy, I’m happy, everything’s great, and this is just a moment in time.”
Nadal later said that the night had been rough for him. He said he was shaking as he entered the court and he struck a double fault on the first point of the match.
he came just to be with Roger bye 😭 https://t.co/RpGUNfzKRN
— v 🌻 (@lewlove44r) September 24, 2022
“When Roger leaves the tour, an important part of my life is leaving too because of all the moments that he has been next or in front me in important moments of my life,” Nadal said.
“So I have been emotional to see the family, see all the people. Difficult to describe, but amazing moment.”