Rafael Nadal To Make Wimbledon Decision
19 June 2009
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Rafael Nadal’s hope of defending his Wimbledon title hangs in the balance after struggling in an exhibition match yesterday.
The world number one, who is the top seed at SW19 which starts on Monday, faced Lleyton Hewitt in his first competitive match since crashing out of the French Open but lost in straight sets 6-4 6-3.
Nadal has been plagued with knee injuries for his entire career but after his surprise loss in Paris he was diagnosed with tendonitis in both quadricep tendons as well as water on the kneecaps.
Earlier this week it looked like the Spaniard would defend his title as he came through a tough training session, which saw him practice with British number one Andy Murray, however his fitness has once again been thrown into question.
He looked uncomfortable on the court and he struggled with his movement. Former Wimbledon champion Hewitt took full advantage forcing him to save two break points in his opening service game.
The normally confident Spaniard muttered to himself throughout the full one hour and twenty minute encounter with Hewitt as his frustrations grew as he failed to get to balls he would normally have no trouble in reaching.
Speaking to the BBC after his match his uncle and coach Toni Nadal said: “He is having difficulties bending and it seems his treatments aren't enough."
"I don't know [if he will defend his title], we have to wait for Friday."
Later today he will play a second exhibition match against Stanslas Wawrinka before holding a press conference to announce his decision.
Nadal won his first title at SW19 twelve months ago beating Roger Federer in that epic five set thriller which saw Federer reign come to an end.
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