The 2019 US Open men’s champion Rafael Nadal, is no longer defending his title in 2020.
Nadal stated on Tuesday that he has withdrawn from the 2020 US Open, due to rising concerns of coronavirus..
“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,” Rafael said in a post.
“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 added.
“All my respects to the USTA, the US Open organisers 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.”
Rafael’s withdrawal from the tournament is the major setback for US Open 2020. The star tennis player was also the winner of the previous edition of this tournament.
