Nadal set to face Serbia in Davis Cup

 

Originally published on: 26/02/10 11:28

Rafael Nadal has been named in Spain’s Davis Cup squad for next month’s opening round match at home to Serbia, marking his return after missing last year’s final.

Nadal’s inclusion comes a day after he withdrew from next week’s Dubai tournament after his doctor advised him that the knee complaint that hindered his performance in the Rotterdam final against Andy Murray last weekend needs more time.

“I am very disappointed not to be able to compete in Dubai, but the doctor has advised me to stay home and rest after the pain on my knee in Rotterdam last week,” Nadal said in a statement. “Nothing to be worried about but it needs some rest.

“I expect to be back in competition the following week for the Davis Cup tie in Benidorm against Serbia and will then be travelling to Indian Wells and Miami after.”

Defending champions Spain’s new captain Albert Costa also named David Ferrer, Tommy Robredo and Feliciano Lopez, with Nicolas Almagro as a reserve. Fernando Verdasco, the hero in Argentina, was ruled out with injury.

Former French Open champion Costa took over in December after Emilio Sanchez Vicario stepped down from the role. Spain will play Serbia on clay in Benidorm on March 6-8.

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