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Saturday February 21, 2009

Injured Nadal pulls out of Dubai ATP tourney

PARIS: World No. 1 Rafael Nadal on Thursday pulled out of next week’s ATP tournament in Dubai because of a knee injury, the Spaniard announced on his website.

Nadal joins Roger Federer on the sidelines for the UAE event after the Swiss star withdrew because of a back problem.

“I am very disappointed not to be able to compete in Dubai but the doctor has advised me to stay home and rest after the pain on my knee (which was picked up) in Rotterdam last week,” Australian Open champion Nadal told his personal website.

“It’s nothing to be worried about but it needs some rest. I ask my fans and the tournament organisers to understand and I am sorry for this.

“Dubai is one of my favourite tournaments and I have always played there. The field is always great and more important, the crowds are always supportive.

“I expect to be back in competition the following week for the Davis Cup tie in Benidorm against Serbia and then travel to Indian Wells and Miami.”

Nadal, who has struggled with knee injuries in recent seasons, suffered the latest setback during his semi-final defeat to Andy Murray in Rotterdam last week. — AFP


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