Rafael Nadal is no longer in Wimbledon. The Spanish player announced on Thursday at a press conference that he is withdrawing from the third Grand Slam of the season due to an abdominal muscle injury. The physical discomfort worsened in Wednesday's quarterfinal match against Taylor Fritz. Thus, Nick Kyrgios will advance to the final.
"I've been thinking all day about what to do, but it doesn't make sense to continue, as the injury is getting worse," said the 'Fiera' to the media. "I made the decision because I believe that I can't win matches this way. It's not just that I can't serve well, but I also can't make the normal movement to serve," he added.
In the same line, 'Rafa' revealed that he has been experiencing these problems for a few days. "I've had it since last week and I've had all kinds of moments. Yesterday, serving at 3-1, I noticed things were starting to get worse, and when serving at 4-3, things got even worse. I had to reduce the serve speed and movements so that it wouldn't get much worse," he said.
Immediately, the Spaniard lamented leaving the tournament in these conditions, as he believed he was having a great campaign. In fact, he valued that he had a chance to advance to the weekend final. "Considering the level I was playing at, I think I could have had some opportunities against Kyrgios," he said.
On the other hand, Nadal admitted that he will avoid exposing himself because he does not want to be away from action for a long period. "I can't risk any more and be out of the courts for two or three months. It's very tough for me and this is my decision, I have to live with it. I'm very sad, I can't say anything else," he said.
"I can't keep playing, not now. I hope these coming weeks allow me to rest and recover. I hope to be able to continue training to follow the schedule I have in mind," added the Manacorí in the press conference.
In closing, Nadal revealed that the foot problem seems to be overcome: "That was what worried me the most, but for now it's respecting me." And before ending the press conference, he reiterated about putting an end to his career: "The possibility of retirement is still on my mind," he concluded.