Rafael Nadal confirms participation in Rio Olympics

08/03/2016

Spaniard Rafael Nadal, who has been suffering from a wrist injury, confirmed his participation in the singles, men’s doubles, and mixed doubles events at the Olympics on Tuesday. Nadal said that although “it's not an ideal situation”, he will “play everything he can” at Rio Olympics.

The nine-time French Open champion's decision to compete in the Olympics at Rio came on a day, which saw another tennis star pulling out of the competition. Switzerland’s world number four Stan Wawrinka joined a whole host of stars to give the quadrennial event a miss after aggravating his back injury. But, to the delight of all Rafa fans, the Spaniard, who last played in the third round of the French Open, will be in action at the courts in Rio.

"After discussing it with my team, I have decided I will play everything that I can. We are here and practice has gone well -- more or less," said the 30-year-old Spaniard after an intense, 90-minute training session with compatriot David Ferrer, reported AFP.

It's not an ideal situation -- there are always risks."

"It's not an ideal situation -- there are always risks,” he said

Nadal also held a lengthy discussion with the team doctor and team captain Conchita Martinez after his practice session on Tuesday before confirming his participation.

"Yesterday (Monday) and today (Tuesday) have been my strongest training in two months and the wrist has not gotten worse," Nadal said.

It's true that in doubles, I might go better, but you never know."

Apart from the singles, Nadal will be seen in action in the men’s doubles with Marc Lopez and mixed doubles with French Open champion Garbine Muguruza. The Spaniard, who will be carrying his country’s flag at the opening ceremony on Friday, admitted that his best medal chance will be in the doubles.

"It's true that in doubles, I might go better, but you never know.

"I will do everything possible to make my role the best and bring something positive for Spain," he concluded.