MUBADALA WORLD TENNIS CHAMPIONSHIP 2012 PLAYER UPDATE
December 25, 2012
World number four and two-time Mubadala World Tennis Championship winner Rafael Nadal has been forced to make a last minute withdrawal from the 2012 event due to a stomach virus. Nadal, who has competed in all four previous tournaments, was advised by doctors not to travel or compete due to the illness.
The Spanish star was due to return to action in Abu Dhabi for the first time since this year’s Wimbledon Championship alongside defending Mubadala World Tennis Champion and world number one Novak Djokovic, reigning US Open Champion and world number three Andy Murray, world number five David Ferrer, world number six Tomas Berdych and world number nine Janko Tipsarevic.
Speaking following his withdrawal Nadal said;
“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.” said Nadal.
“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.” added Nadal.
Tournament organisers IMG have confirmed that Nadal will be replaced in the all-star line-up in the championship at the Abu Dhabi International Tennis Complex, Zayed Sports City, 27th-29th December. The new player to be named in the all-star line-up will be made in advance of the tournament starting on 27th December.
IMG Middle East Managing Director Greg Sproule said;
“Naturally we are all extremely disappointed that Rafael will not be able to attend this year’s event, especially when his progress towards full fitness was going so well. But a player’s health is always the No. 1 priority so we understand that Rafa must follow medical advice. We wish him well with his recovery.
“The Mubadala World Tennis Championship is committed to bringing the best players in the world to Abu Dhabi and we are finalizing plans to bring in another top player to our already extremely strong player field. With five of the top-10 players in the World already here including World number one Novak Djokovic trying to defend his title and Andy Murray returning as a Grand Slam Champion it’s going to be another memorable three days of tennis here in Abu Dhabi.