Rafael Nadal has pulled out of the Swiss Indoors tournament in Basel to rest his right knee.
The Spaniard wore tape during his defeat to Roger Federer in the Shanghai Masters last weekend but has decided, on doctor’s orders, to withdraw from next week’s tournament.
The world number one wrote on Facebook: “After two great weeks in China, with the title in Beijing and the final in Shanghai, it is time for some rest.
“I want to send a special message to the many tennis fans in Switzerland, which have always showed great support and respect also on my matches with Roger. Hope to see you next year.”
Nadal has struggled with knee injuries for much of his career and his withdrawal could open the door for Federer to end the year in the No1 spot.
