World number two Rafael Nadal has opted not to participate at the ATP 500 bet-at-home Open tournament which takes place next week. A title win at this event would give Nadal a chance to reclaim the world number one ranking from Wimbledon 2014 champion Novak Djokovic. Nadal lost the top ranking after Djokovic won at the All England Club and will now have a tough challenge ahead of defending three hardcourt titles including the US Open in the next two months.
Nadal, who lost in the fourth round at the All England Club, has decided to take a much needed break from tennis.
Michael Stitch, the Hamburg tournament director, said that ”despite our numerous efforts, Nadal has decided to take a break following Wimbledon and will not play at [the event] this year.”
