Rafael Nadal Withdraws From ATP Finals, Undergoes Ankle Surgery; Novak Djokovic To Finish No. 1
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Rafael Nadal officially withdrew from next week’s ATP Finals due to an ab issue and ankle injury which required surgery today, the Spaniard announced today.
“I am writing these words to announce the end of my season,” Nadal said in a statement. “It has been a complicated year. I played at a very high level when I was able to compete, but at the same time it was very bad as far as injuries are concerned. I have done everything possible to reach the end of the season in good condition, both in Paris and London, and I really wanted to play.
“But unfortunately, I had an abdominal problem in Paris last week and, in addition, I have a [problem] with my right ankle joint that [required] an operation [today]. It is true that we have known about it for a while, and from time to time it bothered me. However, since the problem with my abdominal muscle also prevents me from playing in London, we are taking advantage of the moment to remove the free body and avoid future problems.
“With this, I hope to be in full health for the next season. Thank you all for your support.”
Nadal hasn’t played since retiring from his US Open semifinal with Juan Martin del Potro. His withdrawal puts John Isner into the event for a first time.
The news also means Novak Djokovic has clinched the year-end No. 1 ranking for a fifth time, first since 2015. Djokovic, who took over as No. 1 today, ranked as low as No. 22 in June.
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