December 28, 2012 | By Long Island Tennis Magazine Staff
Photo credit: Kenneth B. Goldberg
As confirmed by the official Web site of the 2013 Australian Open, Spain’s Rafael Nadal has put his comeback on hold as a stomach virus has further delayed his training and will prevent him from competing Down Under. Nadal was originally scheduled to make his return from right knee surgery at this week’s 2012 Mubadala World Tennis Championship in Abu Dahbi, followed by another event in Doha. This current setback has forced the Spaniard to withdraw from both events.
"I am sorry and very sad to announce that I will not play in the Australian Open," said Nadal, winner of the 2009 Australian Open. "My knee is coming along okay, but a stomach virus has left me unable to get ready in time to tackle the rigors of a Grand Slam. Because of the virus, I have been unable to get any match practice and simply would not be doing myself or my friends in Australia justice if I went down there so unprepared. You need your body to be at its best for the Australian Open."
Nadal has not played since losing in the second round of Wimbledon to Lukas Rosol. He is reportedly targeting a clay-court tournament in Acapulco in February for his next return date.
"It was a difficult decision and I am extremely disappointed to be missing such a great event," said Nadal. "I love coming to Melbourne and playing on Rod Laver Arena before the Australian crowds. It brings out the best in me. It hurts to have to wait another 12 months before I get another chance. In the meantime, the focus is now on desperately trying to get back on the tour."
Australian Open Tournament Director Craig Tiley said, "It is completely understandable and we really feel disappointed for him. But without any match practice and without sufficient lead up time on the practice court, it makes it virtually impossible for him to get his body ready. We just hope he gets better quickly and we see him back on the tour as soon as possible. Tennis fans across the world have been missing him."
