Rafael Nadal cannot compete in the semi-finals of the Davis Cup 2018 in France. This was announced by the Spanish Tennis Federation on Saturday.
Sergi Bruguera feared it immediately when he saw the pictures of Rafael Nadal’s task against Juan Martin del Potro, now it’s official: The world’s number one will be missing for the Spaniards in France next weekend. This was announced by the Spanish Tennis Federation on Saturday evening. Albert Ramos Vinolas was nominated as a replacement.
This could turn the tide drastically in the direction of defending champions France. Even though neither Benoit Paire nor top player Lucas Pouille have been convincing in recent weeks. And it is doubtful whether Richard Gasquet was able to take anything with him from the lesson given to him by Novak Djokovic.
On the other hand: Pablo Carreno Busta and especially Roberto Bautista Agut, the nominally best players behind Nadal, are neither afraid nor frightened at the moment.
The situation in Zadar is equally open: Although the Croatians have Marin Cilic, the best-ranked player of the weekend, the Americans are now bringing in two-time Grand Slam champions Mike Bryan and Jack Sock. USA advantage in doubles, no question.
In addition, Steve Johnson has shown a strong upward trend in recent weeks, while Borna Coric has shown little consistency. His performance at the US Open was alright, however, the end against Juan Martin del Potro in the round of 16 was still clear.