Rafael Nadal’s Fans React To His Decision To Sit Out The Remainder Of The Season And Undergo Appendectomy

Following Nadal's loss, 6-2, 7-6 (7-4) to 17-year-old Borna Coric in the quarterfinals of the 2014 Swiss Indoors, he has announced that he will not play in the remainder of the season to undergo appendectomy. The third-ranked Spaniard was diagnosed with appendicitis during his participation at the Shanghai Rolex Masters. He followed a course of antibiotic treatment for several days so he could compete in Basel, but after his failed run in the tournament, Nadal has decided to sit out the rest of the remaining tournaments and go through surgery instead.

Nadal told reporters after the quarterfinals match at the Swiss Indoors that he wouldn't be able to compete in Paris and London because he just wasn't "competitive enough." He said that he will have to undergo a surgical procedure for his appendix. Nadal also made an announcement on Oct. 25 on Facebook and revealed that he would be having his appendectomy on Nov. 3.

It was sad news for the fans of the tennis great, who still want to see their sports icon in action. As soon as he made his official announcement, fans offered their messages and support for Nadal. They all wished Nadal a speedy recovery so that he will back in time for the 2015 season.

One fan said that the surgery will not sideline Nadal for a long time and the Spaniard should be feeling better soon. Another fan said that it was a wise decision for Nadal to put his health first even though his signature trademarks on the tennis court will be missed, while one said that Nadal should be praised for his "courage and nobility of spirit" for choosing to play and finish his duties in Basel.

"Without you, tennis is as boring as a lonely desert with nothing to offer, you are an inspiration to millions of us," one fan commented. "Your humility and efforts inspire common people like us, to us, you are not only a champion player but source of life from which hope of survival springs."

Nadal ended his season, 48-11, with four titles, including the Qatar Open, Rio Open, Madrid Open, and the French Open. Nadal's absence has heightened the race between those players who are trying to qualify in the last four slots for the World Tour Finals in London.