US Open champion Rafael Nadal has been forced to withdraw from the Laver Cup with a hand injury, the Spaniard revealed Sunday. Dominic Thiem will now compete for Europe against World Team ace Nick Kyrgios in the singles match while Stefanos Tsitsipas will play alongside Swiss maestro Roger Federer in the doubles.

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Rafael Nadal disappointed at pulling out

Nadal said his hand was swollen and that he was pulling out of the tournament with deep regret.

"I've had an amazing time playing here at the Laver Cup and I'm so disappointed I'm not able to play again today, but I have some inflammation in my hand and I need to rest," said the Mallorcan.

"The atmosphere has been amazing here in Geneva and of course I'm going to be there for all my teammates and do everything I can to support them and help Team Europe win the Laver Cup," he said, promising to remain with his team for Sunday's finale. This year is the first time the tournament has been played since being added to the ATP Tour. Europe won the 2018 edition 13-8 in Chicago.

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Federer and Nadal mentor Fabio Fognini

Both Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal play for one team in the Laver Cup which commenced on Friday. The veteran players were seen mentoring World No. 11 Fabio Fognini during his singles match against Jack Sock as Team Europe took on Team World.  Fognini seemed to be a bit carried away and stressed out and while he was taking a water break, both Federer and Nadal came forward to encourage him with their wise words. Federer told the Italian to focus on his game and urged him to ignore negativity and urged him to be positive. 

"Believe in the good thing", said Federer.

Meanwhile, Nadal was heard giving encouraging in Spanish. Unfortunately, the legends' advice went in wait as Fognini went down to Sock in two consecutive sets 6-1, 7-6. 

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Rafael Nadal just one win away from Federer's feat

Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal are two of the finest and the biggest names in world tennis. The duo have 39 Grand Slams between them. Federer has a record 20 Grand Slams while Nadal is just one short of equalling the Swiss icon's feat. He currently has 19 Grand Slams.

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(With AFP/PTI Inputs)