Rafael Nadal has made a decision about his upcoming weeks, and they won't feature the 2024 US Open, as he withdrew from the tournament.
Over the years, the Spanish legend had a relative success at Flushing Meadows, having won the tournament four times, in 2010, 2013, 2017, and 2019. However, he won't return in 2024.
Initially, Nadal appeared on the entry list for the 2024 US Open, which made many of his fans happy, but the fact that he didn't sign up for the Canadian Open in Montreal, and his name also didn't appear on the entry list for the Cincinnati Open, it was clear that he likely wouldn't play at the US Open.
Still, his fans remained hopeful, waiting for the 22-time Grand Slam champion's next move. He last stood on the tennis court at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, losing in the quarter-final of the doubles tournament with Carlos Alcaraz.
Before that, he lost in the second round of the singles tournament to his rival Novak Djokovic, and while he showed his clay-court magic late in the match, for the vast majority of it, it was clear that Djokovic and Nadal played at a completely different level.
As such, it was hard to imagine the 'King of Clay' back on the hard courts, given how much he struggled on clay, and he made a sensible decision, withdrawing from the 2024 US Open, held from August 26th to September 8th.
"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."
According to Nadal, he would have liked to compete at the US Open, but since he wouldn't be able to give it his 100%, it didn't make sense to compete.
"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 to all my US Fans in particular, will miss you all and will see you another time. Best of lucks to all for the always amazing US Open!"
US Open Tournament Director Stacey Allaster also released a statement after the withdrawal of the four-time champion. For the tournament, it's a huge hit, as the 22-time major winner would attract thousands of fans.
Still, Allaster also gave hope to the Spaniard's supporters, stating they 'look forward to having him back', probably hoping for Nadal's participation in 2025.
"Rafa is a tremendous champion and he will be missed during the 2024 US Open by the fans and all those associated with the tournament. We wish him all the best and look forward to having him back at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center."
With his withdrawal from the 2024 US Open, the 38-year-old also revealed his next move. As he stated before, Nadal remains committed to the 2024 Laver Cup in Berlin, which will be held from September 20th to 22nd.
"My next event will be the Laver Cup in Berlin."