Rafael Nadal next to pull out from Rio Olympics? Injury may force Spaniard to skip singles competition at event

Rafael Nadal could be the next to pull out from the 2016 Rio Olympics, but only at the men's singles category of the quadrennial event.

Nadal could join Roger Federer as the next player to dealt the Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro another huge blow, with the King of Clay set to withdraw from singles tennis amid concerns over his left wrist injury sustained at the French Open in May.

Nadal has been able to guarantee his appearance at the Olympics next month, skipping the Rogers Cup to make way for his preparations and be in full health competing at the Rio Olympics. However, it seems Nadal could face yet another setback that could prevent him from winning a second Olympic Gold Medal in August.  

With Nadal still recovering from a left wrist injury that forced him to skip Wimbledon, there is a strong possibility fans won't get to see the 14-time Grand Slam winner participating in singles competition.

Nadal was supposed to have training sessions with world No. 2 Andy Murray in Majorca, but the Spaniard cancelled the planned training, which puts Nadal's preparation in jeopardy.  

Nadal may have also hinted withdrawing from the singles category after admitting he won't be "100 percent" competing at the event, where he will be Spain's flag-bearer in the opening ceremony.

"In singles it seems impossible to me being 100% competitive after being out [of competition] for two months. My goal is to arrive to Rio recovered and ready to give my best in every practice. I am recovering even if I am preparing physically and on the tennis court," Nadal said.

The 30-year-old Mallorcan has been adamant about the importance of competing at the grandest sporting event in the world, but it may serve him well to lay low a bit if he wishes to contend for another major title at the US Open, which kicks off on August 29.

Nadal may not be in the best form to win another major title in New York, but if he could pick up where he left this season, there is a chance people get to see vintage Rafa competing on the hard court.