Carlos Alcaraz and Rafael Nadal were confirmed to play an exhibition match in Las Vegas, but the 22-time Grand Slam champion will be unable to play following his injury at the Australian Open.
The Spaniards initially had to play on March 5 at the MGM Rewards 'The SLAM', one day before the start of Indian Wells. The absence of the 36-year-old player may mean his absence from the Master 1000, since there is still no certainty regarding the date of his recovery. In his replacement, a match will be played between the two highest-ranked Americans currently, Taylor Fritz (world No. 7) and Frances Tiafoe (world No. 15).
"With the recent developments of @MGMRewards The Slam, I’d like to wish @RafaelNadal a swift recovery. On March 5th, joining me at MGM Grand Garden Arena will be two amazing players, @FTiafoe and @Taylor_Fritz97. May the best man win!" Alcaraz wrote on his Twitter.
After his withdrawal, Nadal spoke through a statement to express his disappointment at not playing the match.
"I am very sad for not being able to come to Vegas and play in this amazing event with Carlos at the MGM Grand Garden Arena. Unfortunately, the timing of my recovery doesn't make it possible to be there ready to play," the Manacor said.
"I am sure that we will find another date to celebrate this event and have fun. I would like to thank the fans and event organizers who have been in contact with me all the time, showed a lot of support and have been extremely understanding," added the Spaniard.
With the recent developments of @MGMRewards The Slam, I’d like to wish @RafaelNadal a swift recovery. On March 5th, joining me at MGM Grand Garden Arena will be two amazing players, @FTiafoe and @Taylor_Fritz97. May the best man win! Visit spr.ly/60003ovJu to learn more!
