The tennis world is ready for the glittering affair that is the Laver Cup. But with the tournament just around the corner, Roger Federer has expressed concern about the absence of star players. Despite the distinct lack of Grand Slam champions this year, Roger is certain there will be quality tennis.
The tournament, which began in 2017, is in its sixth year. Co-founded by Roger himself, it sees players from Europe teaming up to take on the rest of the world.
Last year, the Laver Cup featured players like Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic representing team Europe. It was also the last-ever tournament of Federer’s long and illustrious career. It was an emotional affair, as he bid adieu to the sport he dedicated his life to.
It’s been nearly a year since the Laver Cup permanently altered my brain chemistry pic.twitter.com/yZqVTrArcS
— Robespierre (@brookeabeyer) September 14, 2023
However, both Nadal and Djokovic will be absent from this year’s edition. Nadal is currently recuperating from his injuries and Djokovic is taking a break. The Serb had a long but wonderful year, winning three Grand Slams out of four, his last being the US Open.
Even tennis icon Andy Murray will be missing this year. In spite of these stars missing out, Federer is quite sure there will be quality tennis on display in Vancouver.
“Rafa being injured, Novak taking a break, I understood that, obviously, completely. Murray maybe not coming back again, it’s understandable. Look it is what it is, I still think it’s going to be a great weekend,” he said (via The Globe And Mail).
Nadal, Djokovic, and Murray are not the only players set to miss the Laver Cup. Other well-known names have also withdrawn from the event recently.
Which players have withdrawn from the Laver Cup?
With the tournament set to be held in Vancouver this week, a few top 10 players have pulled out of the Laver Cup already. The most notable players to withdraw are world number 4 Holger Rune, and world number 5, Stefanos Tsitsipas.
Rune withdrew citing a back injury. Alejandro Davidovich Fokina, who replaced Rune, will represent Team Europe instead. Rune took to social media to inform of his decision.
As I am in treatment with my back it’s not possible for me to play Laver Cup next week. I would have loved to join the fight to get the trophy 🏆 back to Europe and I will support my team mates from a distance 💪🏼 #teameurope #lavercup
— Holger Rune (@holgerrune2003) September 17, 2023
Tsitsipas also pulled out of the Laver Cup due to an injury. The Greek star did not have a good outing during the North American hardcourt swing. 19-year-old Arthur Fils will directly replace Stefanos.
With Rune and Tsitsipas out, Andrey Rublev is the next highest-ranked player to represent Europe. Casper Ruud, Hubert Hurkacz, Davidovich Fokina, Gael Monfils, and Fils will be joining Rublev.
Alternate Arthur Fils will replace Stefanos Tsitsipas on Team Europe for Laver Cup Vancouver 2023. Tsitsipas has withdrawn due to injury. pic.twitter.com/VJ6QyeXED2
— Laver Cup (@LaverCup) September 19, 2023
While it is unfortunate some of the biggest stars will be absent, there is enough star power to dazzle the crowd. The tournament will be held from September 22nd to 24th.