Rafael Nadal joins star-studded line-up for Team Europe at 2024 Laver Cup - 'An incredible experience'

ByRichard Newman

Published 22/04/2024 at 11:22 GMT

Rafael Nadal will play for Team Europe at the Laver Cup for the first time since Roger Federer’s farewell in 2022, when Team World visit Berlin in September. The 22-time Grand Slam champion has just returned from injury at the Barcelona Open and will face American Darwin Blanch in the first round of the Madrid Open this week. This is expected to be Nadal's final season on the tour.

Rafael Nadal will make what is likely to be his final Laver Cup appearance for Team Europe in September.

The 22-time Grand Slam champion, who indicated last year that this would be his final season on the circuit, joins a star-studded line up for the three-day event against Team World in Berlin.

Nadal recently made his latest comeback from injury at the Barcelona Open last week and will take on Darwin Blanch in the first round of the Madrid Open next as he continues his build-up to Roland Garros.

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Although the former world No. 1 has hinted he could play on past this year, it is expected that the 37-year-old will retire at the end of the campaign.

Nadal last played at the Laver Cup in 2022, Roger Federer’s farewell tournament, when he partnered his long-time rival in the doubles. Both men were famously in tears afterwards.

“I have some really special memories from my Laver Cup experiences, including all the emotions from London two years ago playing alongside Roger for the last time,” said Nadal in a statement, who has played the event three times.

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“At this stage in my career I really want to go out there and make the most of every opportunity I am given. Teaming up is always an incredible experience and I have always enjoyed it, the competition is different and exciting.

“I’m looking forward to going to Berlin and helping Team Europe win back the Laver Cup.”

Nadal joins a Team Europe squad which includes Carlos Alcaraz, Daniil Medvedev and Alexander Zverev, with more to be announced.

“Rafa is an absolute legend in our sport, a true champion in every sense of the word,” said Team Europe captain Bjorn Borg.

“It’s my last year as Captain. Having him on Team Europe this year was a goal of mine and I’m thrilled he has accepted my invitation and will be with us in Berlin. ”

Team World thumped Team Europe 13-2 during last year’s edition in Vancouver, though Borg was only able to count on two top-10 players: Andrey Rublev and Casper Ruud.

• Nadal to face 16-year-old in Madrid opener - when is the match and what's his draw?
• Nadal says French Open is moment to 'give everything' after Barcelona exit

John McEnroe named the first three players for his Team World squad earlier this month, naming Alex de Minaur, Taylor Fritz and Tommy Paul as his first picks.

The 2024 Laver Cup will take place on September 20-22, with coverage on Eurosport and discovery+.

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