Bad news for all Austrian tennis fans: Superstar Rafael Nadal is unlikely to serve in Vienna.
This was confirmed by the world number one during a press appearance at the US Open. In an interview with a Chinese television station, the 32-year-old was asked about his further tournament calendar for 2018 and explicitly about a possible start in Vienna.
Nadal will face France, Beijing and Shanghai in the Davis Cup away duel after the US Open. When asked if he could confirm his participation in the Erste Bank Open, which will take place from 20-28 October, the Spaniard answered very briefly: “No.”
But the local tennis fans may still have a little remaining hope. The 17-time Grand Slam champion may still be in negotiations with tournament director Herwig Straka. After the interview, however, the wish seems to be the father of thought.
After Nadal will not be at the start in Basel this year, Straka wanted to pilot the Spaniard to the Austrian capital for a circulated sum of one million euros.
The tournament director of the 500 event is also in talks with Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray. At least one of the two superstars should do himself the honour in Vienna.
But even without a possible commitment of the two, the field of participants can be seen. With Grigor Dimitrov, Nick Kyrgios, Kei Nishikori, Lucas Pouille, Hyeon Chung, Frances Tiafoe and local hero Dominic Thiem, 2018 will certainly see some high-profile stars in the city hall.