Rafael Nadal has withdrawn from this year’s US Open due to concerns over his ability to ‘provide his 100%’ at the tournament, which begins later this month.
The 22-time Grand Slam winner sent a social media statement announcing his withdrawal. A few weeks prior, Nadal had registered to compete in the tournament; however, he subsequently clarified that his sole intention was to have the opportunity to participate. Despite being the tournament’s four-time winner, he hasn’t competed since 2022.
“I have decided not to compete at this year’s US Open a place where I have amazing memories,” Nadal wrote on the social media site X.
“I will miss those electric and special night sessions in NYC at Ashe, but I don’t think I would be able to give my 100% this time.
“Thanks to all my US Fans in particular, will miss you all and will see you another time.”
Nadal had recently hinted that he would not be playing at the last major of the season following his exit from the Olympic Games in Paris. At the Games, he lost in the second round to Novak Djokovic and in the quarter-finals of the doubles tournament where he was playing alongside Carlos Alcaraz.
The Spaniard’s future in the sport is being speculated about in light of the withdrawal. He is scheduled to participate in the Laver Cup in at least one event before 2024 ends. a team competition where players from Europe compete against gamers worldwide.
Although the Laver Cup is an ATP event, ranking points are not awarded. Since the beginning of January, Rafael Nadal has participated in eight competitions. His greatest performance to date was reaching the final of the Nordea Open in Sweden, where Nuno Borges defeated him to win the title. He hasn’t participated in three of the four Grand Slams, though.