Kei Nishikori withdraws from US Open despite negative Covid-19 test
Former finalist Kei Nishikori has withdrawn from the US Open despite testing negative for coronavirus.
The Japanese, who lost to Marin Cilic in straight sets in the 2014 US Open final, returned a positive sample for the second time last week, necessitating his absence from the ongoing Western and Southern Open in New York.
Despite his latest negative result ahead of the tournament which gets under way next week, former world No 4 Nishikori believes he would not be able to withstand the rigours that Grand Slam matches can present.
He said in a statement on his official app: “I am happy to announce that I tested negative for Covid. I will slowly pick up my practice schedule tomorrow.
“Having said that, I (together with my team) have decided to skip the US Open this year. After such a long break I feel that returning in a best of 5 long-match setting is not smart until I am fully ready to do so.
“It’s disappointing as I love the US Open and have great memories there.”
Nishikori indicated he would return for the shortened clay swing of the season, which starts next month.
A host of players will be missing from the US Open as they have decided not to travel due to the risks of coronavirus.
Defending men’s champion Rafael Nadal, reigning women’s champion Bianca Andreescu, women’s world number No 1 and 2 Ashleigh Barty and Simona Halep and Australian Nick Kyrgios are among the highest profile names to withdraw.
Follow us on Twitter @T365Official.
Latest
-
Tennis NewsRoger Federer sends his fans into a frenzy with Twitter post ahead of his return to action
Roger Federer fans are counting down to his return to action in Doha next week and his tweet teasing his return instantly became a big hit.
-
Tennis NewsIga Swiatek’s perfect week as she claims her second WTA title
Iga Swiatek won her second career WTA title with victory over Belinda Bencic in the final of the Adelaide International.
-
NewsJamie Murray says quarantine threat on tour means players must be ready to adapt
The doubles specialist plans to travel to tournaments in Mexico and Miami next month without knowing what to expect on arrival.
-
Tennis NewsBattle of the Brits event is back and this time with spectators
The Battle of the Brits events were a huge success during the Covid-19 crisis and now they are set to return with spectators.
-
Tennis FeaturesThe only way is up for Naomi Osaka as she looks to replicate hard-court success on clay and grass
Oli Jefford on the world being Naomi Osaka’s oyster.
-
Kevin PalmerBritain’s strength in depth in doubles highlights quality of structure
British tennis may be wondering who can replace Andy Murray, but they have a very different story to tell in the doubles arena.
-
Tennis NewsRafael Nadal pulls out of his next event due to ‘ongoing’ back problem
Rafael Nadal has withdrawn from the ABN…
-
Tennis NewsLleyton Hewitt to be inducted into International Tennis Hall Of Fame
Former world No.1 Lleyton Hewitt is the latest player who will be inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame.
-
Tennis FeaturesFive of the best men’s matches at the Australian Open featuring Stefanos Tsitsipas vs Rafael Nadal, and more
The matches that made us sit up and take note.
-
Australian OpenFive of the best women’s matches at Australian Open featuring Naomi Osaka vs Garbine Muguruza, and more
Five of the best women’s singles matches at the 2021 Aus Open.