The format of the Laver Cup will be much easier on Nadal’s injury-prone body. Unlike the US Open, Laver Cup matches are best-of-three sets with a match tiebreak in place of a third set. The nature of an exhibition-style event also means the former world No. 1 won’t need to exert himself and risk any issues with his body. He can also pull out and watch from the sidelines if it becomes too much.

In 2022, Nadal famously joined forces with Federer in the doubles for the Swiss star’s retirement. The Spaniard was injured during the tournament and, after that match, he withdrew and flew home. Federer also did not compete again over the weekend and cheered on his team from the bench.

It’s not known whether Nadal will play again after the Laver Cup. The 38-year-old has not addressed his future beyond the tournament and previously said he didn’t know whether he would be stopping. “When I decide to stop playing or when I decide to keep going, I will let you know. I don’t know,” he said at the Olympics.