December 26, 2012 | By Long Island Tennis Magazine Staff
Photo credit: Kenneth B. Goldberg
Rafael Nadal’s return from a long-term knee injury has been delayed due to a stomach virus that has ruled him out of an exhibition tournament in Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates. The 26-year-old Nadal has been out of action since June with a right knee injury when he suffered a loss in the second round of Wimbledon at the hands of Lukas Rosol.
"Rafael Nadal has been forced to make a last minute withdrawal from the 2012 event due to a stomach virus," said a statement released Tuesday. "Nadal, who has competed in all four previous tournaments, was advised by doctors not to travel or compete due to the illness."
The event in Abu Dhabi was won twice by Nadal in 2010 and 2011. After the tournament in Abu Dhabi, Nadal was scheduled to continue his comeback in his first ATP event since a right knee injury ended his 2012 season, the Qatar Open, starting on New Year’s Eve.
"I am very disappointed that I will not be able to compete this year in Abu Dhabi," said Nadal in a statement. "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. 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."
