Reigning Olympic tennis singles champion Rafael Nadal has officially withdrawn from the upcoming London 2012 Olympics due to knee tendinitis.
“I am not in [a] condition to compete in the London Olympics and therefore will not travel as planned with the Spanish delegation to take part in the games,” said Nadal in a statement.
“I have to think about my companions, I can’t be selfish and I have to think of what’s best for Spanish sport… and give fellow sportsmen with better preparation the chance to compete. I tried to hurry my preparations and training to the very last minute, but it was not to be,” he added.
The world number three said that the decision has certainly affected a lot of his loved ones and fans and of course, himself.
“It is one of the saddest days of my career. You can imagine how difficult it was to take this decision.”
The 26-year old was tapped to carry the Spanish flag at the opening ceremony in London. It’s not yet confirmed whether he will still continue with this task.
At the 2008 Beijing Olympics, Nadal beat Chile’s Fernando Gonzalez to secure his first Olympic gold medal. In doubles, his rival Roger Federer won the gold with partner and compatriot Stanislas Wawrinka.
