Federer replaces Nadal in IPTL Indian Aces team
Originally published on 23/09/14
Nadal, who missed the defence of his US Open title with a wrist injury, has withdrawn from the Delhi-based Indian Aces in order to prepare for 2015.
The 14-time Grand Slam champion, who has not played since his shock defeat to Nick Kyrgios at Wimbledon, plans to return to action in Beijing next week.
“I am very disappointed to announce that I will not be part of the first edition of the IPTL,” Nadal said in a statement. “I was looking forward to representing Indian Aces and playing in front of fans in New Delhi in the exciting new league. I wish the team the very best and hope to be back next year.”
Federer did not commit to the IPTL when it was launched earlier in the year, but will join fellow former world No.1 Pete Sampras in the Indian Aces team, which also features Ana Ivanovic and Gael Monfils.
"I'm really looking forward to making my first trip to Delhi,” Federer said. "My team tells me that there's a lot of tennis fans and supporters of mine in the area, so I hope you can come out and support me in December."
The IPTL, which is scheduled to take place between November 28 and December 13, will feature 24 matches across the four host cities, Manila, Singapore, New Delhi and Dubai.
Manila Mavericks (Philippines) Home games November 28-30
Andy Murray, Jo Wilfred Tsonga, Maria Sharapova, Daniel Nestor, Carlos Moya, Kirsten Flipkens, Treat Huey
Singapore Slammers (Singapore) Home games December 2-4
Serena Williams, Andre Agassi, Tomas Berdych, Lleyton Hewitt, Nick Kyrgios, Daniela Hantuchova, Bruno Soares, Pat Rafter
Indian Aces (Delhi) Home games December 7-9
Roger Federer, Gael Monfils, Pete Sampras. Rohan Bopanna, Ana Ivanovic, Sania Mirza, Fabrice Santoro
UAE Royals (Dubai) Home games December 11-13
Novak Djokovic, Caroline Wozniacki, Goran Ivanisevic, Richard Gasquet, Nenad Zimonic, Malek Jaziri, Eugenie Bouchard
For more information or to purchase tickets, visit the International Premier Tennis League website