Nadal withdraws from London Olympics
Reigning champion Rafael Nadal will not be defending his Olympic title in London as reports swirled Thursday morning that the tennis star has pulled out of the 2012 Games. According to the Daily Mail, Nadal says he is “not in condition” to compete. He was also set to carry Spain’s flag during the opening ceremony and was looking forward to the experience he described as “unforgettable.”
Nadal has been fighting to recover from a reported knee injury since the French Open. During his recovery he said, “I am the one who is most worried. I hope that things improve and my intention is to arrive in London well prepared and recuperated. It is for this that I work every day.”
Nadal, 2008 and 2010 Wimbledon champion, was surprisingly knocked out by 100th-ranked Czech Lukas Rosol in the second round this year. He also pulled out of a charity match against Novak Djokovic set for July 14 in order to recover in time for London. He has not played since his Wimbledon loss.
Unfortunately for Nadal and tennis fans, his efforts to recuperate in time for London weren’t enough.
