"I am disappointed that Rafa does not play at Wimbledon" - Wilander on Nadal's decision to skip the Grand Slam event

After Rafael Nadal announced that he would be withdrawing from Wimbledon and the Tokyo Olympic Games, former World No.1 Mats Wilander admitted that he was not happy about the Spaniard's decision.

Although the seven-time Grand Slam champion claimed to understand the decision, he revealed that it did not sit well with him.

“I can understand that the Games pose a physical risk,” Wilander said in an interview with Marca. “Especially since the US Open is coming later. But I am disappointed that Rafa does not play at Wimbledon, I suppose he will have a good reason for withdrawing because, otherwise, he would not have done it."

Read also

2021 Wimbledon ATP Entry List with Djokovic, Medvedev and Federer (last update 24-06-21)

Nadal released a statement on Twitter, stating that his goal was to prolong his career in order to continue to do what makes him happy. However, Wilander stated that he would prefer to see the 20-time Grand Slam champion compete alongside the other members of the Big Three.

“It is clear that the short two weeks between Roland Garros and Wimbledon have not helped if you consider Nadal’s style of play,” admitted Wilander. “I think he has played too much on clay, although it is what he usually does. I would have liked to see the ‘Big Three ‘back fighting to continue making history.”