‘I have decided to follow my heart,’ says Rafael Nadal as he confirms he will not defend his US Open title
Defending champion Rafael Nadal will not compete at the 2020 US Open as he has decided not to travel to the United States as “it looks like we still don’t have control” of the coronavirus.
World No 2 Nadal had previously admitted that he was not sure if he would compete at Flushing Meadows due to Covid-19, but in recent days there were hopes that he would take part following the cancellation of the Madrid Open.
However, the 19-time Grand Slam winner’s name was missing when the United States Tennis Association (USTA) released the official entry list on Tuesday.
Nadal later confirmed on social media that has decided not to travel to New York because of Covid-19 concerns.
“After many thoughts I have decided not to play this year’s US Open,” he wrote on Instagram. “The situation is very complicated worldwide, the COVID-19 cases are increasing, it looks like we still don’t have control of it.
“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.
“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.”
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