Top
Rafael Nadal backhand practice

‘We have decided I won’t play’ – Rafael Nadal suffers injury scare ahead of Australian Open


Rafael Nadal has suffered an injury scare ahead of the Australian Open with him forced to withdraw from his ATP Cup due to a back problem.

The world number two was all set to lead Spain’s charge in their opening match against Australia, but he revealed via social media that he would not be able to play.

“Hi all, we have decided with Team Spain and my team, to not play today the first match of the ATP Cup here in Melbourne, since I have a stiff low back,” Nadal said.

“Hopefully i’ll be better for Thursday (against Greece).”

Nadal’s place will be taken by Roberto Bautista Agut in the match between the top ranked players in each team, where he will face Alex de Minaur.

Meanwhile, Pablo Carreno Busta will now play John Millman in the other match, as well as the doubles alongside Marcel Granollers.


Michael Graham, Tennishead.net Editor, has been a professional sports journalist for his whole career and is especially passionate about tennis. He's been the Editor of Tennishead.net for over 5 years and loves watching live tennis by visiting as many tournaments as possible. Michael specialises in writing in-depth features about the ATP & WTA tours.