Ferrero drafted in as Nadal replacement

 

Originally published on: 26/02/10 12:48

Nadal, who missed last year’s Davis Cup final when Spain beat Argentina due to a knee injury, has withdrawn from the team due to the abdominal problems he has been suffering from at the US Open.

Following talks with Costa and the Spanish tennis federation (RFET), Nadal has decided to take a short break from playing after the US Open in order to aid his recovery.

“Rafa was sad to have to take this decision as he was really looking forward to the tie and, as always, was eager to defend the Spanish colours. I understand his decision and I hope that he recovers as soon as possible,” said Costa.

“In the case of Juan Carlos Ferrero, he will travel with the team on Sunday, which is when we will meet up in Murcia, and I want to thank him for his commitment to the team.

“Even in difficult moments, such as last Tuesday when I announced that he was not one of the four selections, Ferrero was for us a very important player.”

The 29-year-old Ferrero, a former world number one in the singles rankings, made his Davis Cup debut for Spain in 2000 and has played 15 ties for his country in total, helping them win the competition in 2000 and 2004.

Spain play Israel from September 18-20 in Murcia, with the other semi-final pitting Croatia against the Czech Republic.

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