Nadal Withdraws From Sony Open Tennis in Miami

Rafael Nadal confirmed after winning Indian Wells that he will not compete at next week's Sony Open Tennis event in Miami.

By Erik Gudris

(March 17th, 2013) -- Just moments after winning the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells, Rafael Nadal confirmed earlier reports that he will not compete at next week's Sony Open Tennis event in Miami.

Earlier in the day, tourney organizers in Miami confirmed that they received notification from Nadal that he would not appear, though they did not get an official reason.

"We are disappointed to hear the news that Rafael Nadal will not be competing in Miami this year, especially given his strong results since his return to the Tour," said Tournament Director, Adam Barrett in a statement. "He is a tremendous ambassador for the game and has thousands of adoring fans here in South Florida. We wish him well and hope to see him back in Miami next year."

After defeating Juan Martin Del Potro in a three set final, Nadal later spoke to ESPN's Brad Gilbert. "I am so sorry that I am unable to compete in Miami. It is one of my favorite tournaments. After four weeks the doctors told me to relax a bit."

Despite the disappointment from both Nadal and the event, the news is not a complete surprise. The Spanish superstar continues to make his comeback from a knee injury that sidelined him for seven months since last year's Wimbledon and his participation in both spring hard court events was considered highly unlikely.

Nadal joins a growing list of players on both the men's and women's side who will not be at the combined ATP/WTA event. Roger Federer announced earlier in the year that as part of his shorter schedule, he would not compete in Miami.

Other ATP players who will not be in Miami include Mardy Fish, who is also making a comeback from health issues he suffered last year, Stanislas Wawrinka who withdrew with an arm and back injury and Latvia's Ernests Gulbis, who was offered a last minute wildcard, but decided to skip the event and instead focus on the clay court season.

Earlier in the day, Sam Stosur withdrew from the women's event due to a right calf injury she suffered in her fourth round match at Indian Wells. Victoria Azarenka, who pulled out of Indian Wells with a leg injury, is still expected to play next week in Miami.

(Photo Credit: Natasha Peterson/Corleve)