Rafael Nadal has officially withdrawn from the US Open, the final Grand Slam of the year, just a week after competing in the men’s doubles at the Olympics alongside Carlos Alcaraz, where they reached the quarter-finals.
Although Nadal has not announced his retirement from tennis, he confirmed his participation in the upcoming Laver Cup, scheduled for September. The Spaniard, a four-time champion at Flushing Meadows, has only played at the US Open once since winning the title in 2019.
In a message shared on X, Nadal stated, “Hi all, I’m writing today to let you know that I have decided not to compete at this year’s US Open, a place where I have amazing memories. I will miss those electric and special night sessions in NYC at Ashe, but I don’t think I would be able to give my 100% this time. Thank you to all my US fans—I will miss you and will see you another time. Best of luck to everyone for the always amazing US Open! My next event will be the Laver Cup in Berlin.”
Throughout the 2023 season, Nadal missed nearly all activities but made a comeback in January, only to withdraw from the Australian Open early that month. He returned for the clay season but faced a first-round exit at the French Open against Alexander Zverev.
Choosing to skip Wimbledon to focus on the Paris Olympics—taking place at Roland Garros, where he holds a record 14 titles—Nadal lost in the second round of men’s singles to Novak Djokovic but achieved a strong run in the doubles with Alcaraz.
Speculation on Retirement
Sky Sports’ Nigel Chiu noted that Nadal has not provided any hints regarding retirement. Earlier in the year, it seemed likely he might step back, but there’s speculation he could attempt another season.
“Ultimately, it will come down to his body. Like Andy Murray, Nadal has faced severe injuries but continues to fight back,” Chiu remarked. “It’s interesting that he plans to compete in the Laver Cup, especially considering that Roger Federer announced his retirement at the same event two years ago.”
Upcoming Tennis Events on Sky Sports
As the US Open approaches, fans can tune in to watch major tennis tournaments live, including:
- National Bank Open, Montreal (ATP 1000) – August 6-12
- National Bank Open, Toronto (WTA 1000) – August 6-12
- Cincinnati Open (ATP 1000) – August 12-19
- Cincinnati Open (WTA 1000) – August 13-19
- Winston-Salem Open (ATP 250) – August 18-24
- Tennis in the Land, Cleveland (WTA 250) – August 18-24
- Abierto GNP Seguros, Monterrey (WTA 500) – August 19-24
- US Open (ATP/WTA) – August 26 – September 8
Credit: Sky Sports
