Two years ago, Rafael Nadal joined forces with his long-time rival Roger Federer at the Laver Cup in London’s O2 Arena. Following that match, Federer retired from tennis after achieving 20 Grand Slam singles titles in his career. Now, Nadal is set to participate in the seventh edition of the Laver Cup, which will be held from September 20 to 22 at the Uber Arena in Berlin.
On Monday, the news of Nadal confirming his participation in the Laver Cup came out. Team Europe captain Bjorn Borg sent an invitation to the Spaniard, which he accepted. In a statement, the 37-year-old said he wants to make use of all the opportunities at this stage of his career.
Rafael Nadal (Image via Imago)
I have some really special memories from my Laver Cup experiences, including all the emotions from London two years ago playing alongside Roger for the last time. At this stage in my career, I really want to go out there and make the most of every opportunity I am given.Rafael Nadal said in a statement
It will be his fourth appearance at the Laver Cup, as he previously competed in 2017, 2019, and 2022 (alongside Federer) and has a 2-1 record. Nadal will be joining his compatriot and World No.3 Carlos Alcaraz, World No.4 Daniil Medvedev, and World No.5 Alexander Zverev for Team Europe.
Teaming up is always an incredible experience and I have always enjoyed it. The competition is different and exciting. I’m looking forward to going to Berlin and helping Team Europe win back the Laver Cup.Rafael Nadal added
The team with captain Borg will lock horns with Team World, captained by John McEnroe. Team World has Australia’s Alex de Minaur and two American stars-Taylor Fritz and Tommy Paul.
Rafael Nadal is finally active on court
Rafael Nadal missed 11 months of tennis after his hip flexor injury during the 2023 Australian Open. He subsequently underwent surgery.
Then he made his comeback at the Brisbane Open this year but lost in the quarterfinals. He suffered an abdominal injury as well and ended up missing three more months of tennis.
Finally, the 37-year-old made his much-awaited comeback at the Barcelona Open, where he is a 12-time champion. Though he registered an easy win over Italy’s Flavio Cobolli, Alex de Minaur knocked the Spaniard out in the Round of 32. Nadal will next participate in the Madrid Open, where he has lifted the title five times.
