Rafael Nadal withdrew from the U.S. Open on Wednesday, missing his third Grand Slam match of the year and casting further doubt on his 38-year-old tennis career. It was hardly shocking when Rafa made his declaration on social media. Yes, he was listed on the official entry list for New York that was made public last month, but that was merely a formality and did not prevent the 22-time major champion from withdrawing at any time before the competition got underway on August 26.
On X, the previous Twitter, he posted:
Hello everyone I’m writing to let you all know that, although I have incredible memories from the US Open, I have chosen not to compete this year. I’ll miss those intense and unique night sessions at Ashe in New York City, but I doubt I could give it my all this time. I really want to thank all of my US fans; I shall miss you all and see you soon. I hope everyone has an incredible time at the US Open! I’ll be attending the Laver Cup in Berlin next.
Four times around, Rafa has won the U.S. Open: in 2010, 2013, 2017, and 2019. With the exception of 2022, when he was defeated by Frances Tiafoe in the fourth round, he will have missed the hard-court competition four times in the previous five years due to his absence.
