Aussie Open stars out of Dubai

Best player in the world, Rafael Nadal and new born star Fernando Verdasco withdrew from Dubai ATP World Tour 500 tournament. Verdasco said that he might also skip Davis Cup clash against Serbia. The reason of Nando's decision is an ankle injury he suffered during this year's Oz Open.

Rafa decided to take some time off in order to get ready for a Davis Cup match in Benidorm. Current world No.1 got injured during his final match with Andy Murray in Rotterdam.

"I am very disappointed not to be able to compete in Dubai but the doctor has advised me to stay home and rest after the pain on my knee in Rotterdam last week. Nothing to be worried about but it needs some rest. I ask my fans and the tournament organizers to understand and I am sorry for this. Dubai is one of my favorite tournaments and I have always played there. The field is always great and more important the crowds are always supportive. I expect to be back in competition the following week for the Davis Cup tie in Benidorm against Serbia and then traveling to Indian Wells and Miami after." said Nadal.

Dubai without Nadal, Federer and Verdasco won't be the same. Moreover, Richard Gaquet is also in a big doubt for Dubai because of his shoulder injury.

Not good times for the tournament, that was supposed to become a so called 5th Grand Slam...

~shaw