Nadal Withdraws From Barcelona

© Getty ImagesRafael Nadal won five straight Barcelona titles between 2005-09.

Rafael Nadal has announced his decision to withdraw from the Barcelona Open BancSabadell – 58th Conde de Godó Trophy, organisers confirmed Monday. The Mallorcan player will hold a press conference at the tournament, which commenced earlier today, at noon on Tuesday in order to explain the reasons behind his decision.

In a message relayed by his communications manager, Rafael Nadal declared, “I am really sorry not to be able to play in Barcelona, more than any other tournament, but this year after the win in Monte Carlo my body is asking me to rest. I repeat that I’m especially sorry not to play there, because I would like it to be understood that it really is that way, because it is played in my club and it is my home tournament.

"I want to extend my thanks in advance to the members of the club, the organisers of the tournament, and all of the fans for their understanding. Tomorrow I will be in Barcelona and will be available for the organisers.” 

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“We wish Rafa the best of luck," said Albert Costa, the director of the Barcelona Open BancSabadell – 58th Conde de Godó Trophy. "We know that this has been a difficult decision for him to take. A player also has to know when to listen to his body. But the tournament has only just begun and we have a week of the best tennis ahead of us. Rafa’s withdrawal is a pity but the tournament will go on and will continue strongly and with a great draw."

“The Real Club de Tenis Barcelona-1899 wants to recognise everything that Rafa Nadal has done for the tournament, and also for the club. We will always be grateful and we wish him all the best,” added Albert Agustí, President of the Real Club de Tenis Barcelona.

Sixth seed Tomas Berdych has also withdrawn from the tournament with a right ankle injury. But the prestigious event still boasts seven Top 20 players: Robin Soderling, Jo-Wilfried Tsonga, Fernando Gonzalez, Fernando Verdasco, Juan Carlos Ferrero, David Ferrer and Tommy Robredo. Additionally, two-time Grand Slam champion and former two-time ATP World Tour Champion Lleyton Hewitt is competing.