Rafael Nadal withdraws from US Open, says Laver Cup next event - ESPN

Rafael Nadal pulled out of the US Open on Wednesday, making it the third Grand Slam tournament he's missed this season and raising more questions about his future in tennis at age 38.

Nadal wrote on social media that he will miss «those electric and special night sessions» in Arthur Ashe Stadium, «but I don't think I would be able to give my 100% this time.»

He added that his next event will be the Laver Cup in Berlin on Sept. 20-22. Nadal teamed with Roger Federer in a doubles match at that event in 2022, when Federer played for the final time before his retirement.

Hi all, writing today to let you guys 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.
Thanks… pic.twitter.com/FluGRWUzIp

Nadal's announcement was not much of a surprise. Yes, he was on the official entry list released last month for New York, but that was more of a formality than anything and did not preclude the 22-time major champion from withdrawing at any point before competition begins Aug. 26.

Plus, Nadal telegraphed this news a week ago after his participation in the 2024 Olympics for Spain ended with a quarterfinal loss in doubles alongside Carlos Alcaraz. That followed a second-round loss in singles to rival Novak Djokovic, who left Paris with the men's gold medal.

When he was asked then about playing at the US Open, Nadal paused for a while before responding.

«Looks like not. But I'm going to let you know soon,» he said. «For me, now, I can't give you a clear answer. I need some time, but for me, (it) looks difficult.»

Nadal has not announced anything about a