October 25, 2012 | By Long Island Tennis Magazine Staff
Photo credit: Kenneth B. Goldberg
Rafael Nadal has withdrawn from the BNP Paribas Masters in Paris and the Barclays ATP World Tour Finals in London due to his lingering left knee injury. Nadal has not played since June 28th at Wimbledon when he was upset by Czech Lukas Rosol 6-7(9), 6-4, 6-4, 2-6, 6-4 in the second round.
"It’s disappointing for me to miss the last two tournaments of the season in Paris and London, but it doesn’t come as a surprise," said Nadal. "I will hopefully resume my tennis practice soon since I am making good progress with my recovery from injury. I am not ready to compete in time for these events so I will continue my recovery in Mallorca and work hard to be back as soon as possible."
"We wish Rafa all the best as he continues his rehabilitation from injury," said Brad Drewett, ATP executive chairman and president. "Rafa is an incredible champion and it goes without saying that he has been missed on the ATP World Tour over the past few months. We look forward to welcoming him back on the tour very soon."
Janko Tipsarevic, Nicolas Almagro and Richard Gasquet are all in contention for the spot that will be vacated by Nadal at the year-end Barclays ATP World Tour Finals in London.
