Rafael Nadal has officially pulled out of this year's US Open. The Manacor, Majorca native took to Twitter to announce his withdrawal.
"After many thoughts, I have decided not to play this year’s US Open. The situation is very complicated worldwide, the COVID-19 cases are increasing, it looks like we still don’t have control of it."
The US Open is slated to start on August 31st at the USTA Billie Jean Tennis Center without fans. The US to date is still the the country that has been hit the worse by the Coronavirus with numbers at an all time high. The country suffered 150,000 deaths related to the virus and currently has 4.8 million confirmed cases.
Nadal is the 3rd player to pull out of the event following world number 1 Ash Barty and Nick Krygios. He also stated on his Twitter that it was a decision he never wanted to take but doesn't feel safe traveling.
"We know that the reduced tennis calendar is barbaric this year after 4 months stopped with no play, I understand and thank for the efforts they are putting in to make it happen. We have just seen the announcement of Madrid not being played this year".
He also understood the position the USTA is in and respects them for trying to host the event.
"All my respects to the USTA, the US Open organizers and the ATP for trying to put the event together for the players and the fans around the world through TV. This is a decision I never wanted to take but I have decided to follow my heart this time and for the time being I rather not travel.”
Nadal is still expected to play this year French Open which is scheduled after the US Open. The 34-year-old will be looking to win his record 13th Roland Garros title.