The Spanish tennis legend had been set to represent Team Europe in the event next week but has opted to pull out as "there are other players who can help the team deliver the win" in Berlin.

In a statement on social media, Nadal said: "I’m really disappointed to share that I won’t be able to compete at the Laver Cup in Berlin next week.

"This is a team competition and to really support Team Europe, I need to do what’s best for them and at this moment there are other players who can help the team deliver the win."

Nadal also expressed regret about being unable to represent Team Europe in what will be Bjorn Borg's final year as team captain.

The 22-time major winner said: "I have so many great, emotional memories from playing Laver Cup and I was really looking forward to being with my team-mates and with Bjorn in his final year as Captain.

"I wish Team Europe the very best of luck and will be cheering them on from afar."

The withdrawal will raise fresh questions about Nadal's future in the sport as he had targeted the Laver Cup after pulling out of the US Open and he claimed that he is "not in a position" to commit to any future tournaments.

He said: "Right now I’m not in a position to put myself down for anything.

"I said [I would play] until the Olympics and then we would see, and I’m in that period of rest."