Nadal withdraws from Laver Cup after doubles with Federer, citing personal reasons

The decision comes after Swiss great Roger Federer announced his retirement.

Photos and videos of both Federer and Nadal sitting in a chair and crying went viral on social media after combining for Team Europe in a doubles defeat at the O2 Arena in London on Friday.

Read also: A Part Of Me Goes With Roger Federer, Says Emotional Rafael Nadala

Nadal, who won a men’s record 22 Grand Slam titles, later said that a significant part of him was also leaving the Tour with Federer’s retirement.

“Rafael Nadal withdrew for personal reasons. Cameron Nori will replace him,” tournament organizers said on Saturday.

Meanwhile, the Spaniard is also expecting his first child with wife Marie Perello soon. However, he traveled to London to play alongside Federer in the Swiss maestro’s last professional outing.

Following Federer’s announcement of his retirement, he was replaced in Team Europe by Italian Matteo Berrettini, who drew 2–2 with Team World after the first day’s matches.

Meanwhile, Novak Djokovic will also return to action on Saturday for the first time since winning his 21st major singles title at Wimbledon last month. He is scheduled to play in doubles with American Francis Tiafoe and then Berrettini.

With Reuters inputs.