• Davis Cup

Nadal to skip 2012 Davis Cup

ESPN staff
December 5, 2011
Rafael Nadal and David Ferrer will miss next season's Davis Cup © Getty Images
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Rafael Nadal has confirmed he will not play a part in Spain's defence of their Davis Cup title as he bids to defend his Olympic crown.

Nadal ended the year on a high, claiming a thrilling victory over Juan Martin del Potro to clinch Spain's third title in four years.

But just hours after the Spanish side enjoyed wild celebrations in front of their home fans in Seville, both Nadal and world No. 5 David Ferrer ruled themselves out of the 2012 competition.

"For sure I will not play next year," Nadal said. "In any Olympic year, playing Davis Cup is impossible."

Nadal, who has been outspoken in his criticism of the length of the season, has just three weeks to rest and prepare for the new season, when he will kick off 2012 in Abu Dhabi.

Ferrer, who reached the semi-finals of the ATP World Tour Finals in London before flying directly to Seville, also confirmed he would play no part in the competition.

"I'm a bit older now, and my body can't take as much punishment," the 29-year-old said. "But there are other Spanish players who can take our places."

Feliciano Lopez will be the third member of the Davis side to sidestep the event in 2012.

"Next year is a very special one, with the Olympics and the chance of playing twice at Wimbledon. I've been playing Davis Cup for seven years, and I have wear and tear on my body," he said.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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