Nadal says injury not career-ending

Rafael Nadal has quickly put an end to talk of a career-threatening foot injury.

The Spaniard’s future was called into question today after his coach and uncle, Toni Nadal, told a local publication that the tennis star’s left foot injury was “very serious”.

The world’s second-ranked player, Rafael Nadal ended all speculation as he went on Spanish state television and set the record straight.

“This injury hasn’t stopped me competing at the top level for over two years,” said Rafael Nadal, who originally injured the foot in 2005. “The story that has come out is totally false.”

Toni Nadal, who was in attendance at the news conference, was quoted in today’s Diario de Mallorca as saying the injury could have long-term consequences.

“Rafael’s been affected by an injury to his foot since 2005. He has to learn how to live with it and so far he has managed for two years,” Toni Nadal said in the interview.

“It’s very serious. I don’t know (if it’s career-threatening). I’ll let the doctor reply to that. He has to take a lot of precautions when he plays.”

The 21-year-old Rafael Nadal went 70-15 this season, winning six tournaments including his third French Open title.