RAFAEL Nadal has pulled out of this year’s US Open, admitting that he would not be able to ‘give 100%’ in New York.
The announcement comes swiftly after Nadal’s participation in the Paris Olympics – he was trounced by old rival Novak Djokovic in the men’s singles and reached the doubles quarter-finals with 21-year-old Spaniard Carlos Alcaraz, widely tipped as his successor.
In a post on X, the 38-year-old said: “Hi all, writing today to let you guys know that I have decided not to compete at this year’s US Open, a place where I have amazing memories”.
He added: “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. Best of luck to all for the always amazing US Open!”.
READ MORE: Spain’s Rafael Nadal hints at retirement after crashing out of Paris Olympics doubles with Carlos Alcaraz
Nadal, who has won 22 Grand Slam titles, has lifted the US Open on four occasions at Flushing Meadows: in 2010, 2013, 2017 and most recently 2019.
However, he has only competed in the tournament once since his 2019 triumph, citing a succession of injury problems which have derailed the latter part of his career.
Nadal confirmed that his next tournament would be the Laver Cup, tennis’ equivalent of the Ryder Cup with Team Europe, captained by legendary Bjorn Borg, facing off against Team World, led by John McEnroe.
The announcement has fuelled further speculation that Nadal could retire later this year.
The Laver Cup was where Roger Federer, the 20-time Grand Slam winner, chose to end to his career in 2022.
