Defending champion and world number two Rafael Nadal has confirmed he will not play at this year's US Open, set to start at the end of August, citing the Covid-19 situation and saying he would "rather not travel."
"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 Spanish 19-time Grand Slam winner wrote on Twitter.
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."
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.
— Rafa Nadal (@RafaelNadal) August 4, 2020
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.
— Rafa Nadal (@RafaelNadal) August 4, 2020
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. pic.twitter.com/8VA0aSACVy
— Rafa Nadal (@RafaelNadal) August 4, 2020
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