Rafa withdraws from Mercedes Cup in Stuttgart

Rafael Nadal has been forced to withdraw from this week's Mercedes Cup in Stuttgart with a knee injury.

Nadal received treatment on his knee during Sunday's breathtaking men's final against Roger Federer, after originally sustaining the injury during his third round victory over Mikhail Youzhny.

The new Wimbledon champion, who won the competition last year, flew to Germany to apologise personally to the organisers.

"This was the least I can do. I'm disappointed that I can't play," said Nadal.

"My doctors have said I need a couple of days rest. I will now get examined for an exact diagnosis," said Nadal "I only want to return to the court once I am 100 per cent fit. The calendar is hard on us players, I have played four, five months without a break. I have to recover."

Organisers hope to introduce a later start date next year, creating a longer break after the Wimbledon final.


(source In The News, photo/Daniel Maurer/AP Photo)