It is officially the second half of the ATP season, and the US Open is around the corner. The spotlight is currently on the National Bank Open, with many notable players withdrawing due to their participation in the Paris Olympics. Moreover, some players are taking more time to adjust from clay to hard courts..
However, one notable player who will not be part of the US Open lineup is Rafael Nadal. The Spaniard is a four-time champion at Flushing Meadows, with his most recent win coming in 2019. Moreover, Nadal has now withdrawn from three of the last four events. In his last appearance at the US Open, he lost to Frances Tiafoe in the fourth round.
Rafael Nadal’s Statement
“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 to all my US Fans in particular, will miss you all and will see you another time. Best of luck to all for the always amazing US Open! My next event will be the Laver Cup in Berlin.” Rafael Nadal’s statement on Instagram.
Rafael Nadal’s Horrible Run
Nadal’s most recent singles action was at the Olympic Games, where he lost in the second round to Novak Djokovic. The Spaniard left Phillipe-Chatrier Court after receiving a standing ovation from all sides of the court, where he has won 14 Roland Garros titles. Moreover, after Djokovic’s eventual run to the Olympic gold medal, many, including his uncle Toni Nadal, consider the 24-time Grand Slam champion the greatest tennis player in history.
Nadal has now missed six out of the last seven Grand Slam tournaments. The last Grand Slam match he won was in the first round of the 2023 Australian Open, where he beat Jack Draper in four sets. This means Nadal will go an entire season without winning a Grand Slam match for the first time.
Retirement at Laver Cup?
In his statement, Nadal confirmed that his next tournament will be the Laver Cup. The Spaniard will reunite with countryman Carlos Alcaraz in Team Europe. The duo represented Spain in men’s doubles at the Paris Olympics. However, the bigger question is whether this will be Nadal’s last tournament.
The Spaniard last participated in the Laver Cup in 2022, Roger Federer’s retirement venue. He broke down into tears after his doubles match with the Swiss Maestro, waving goodbye to the career of the 20-time Grand Slam champion. Now, tennis fans are wondering if the roles will be reversed. Considering Nadal announced his decision on Federer’s birthday (8th August), it seems to be a hint.
Conclusion
Nadal is one of the greatest tennis players of all time, if not the greatest. He, along with Djokovic and Federer, have combined to win 66 Grand Slams this century, which is considered the most dominant era in sports history. With Federer already retired, the Big 3 could be on the brink of seeing another exit.
Regardless of what Nadal’s decision turns out to be, the tennis community should come together and celebrate the career of the 22-time Grand Slam champion. The Laver Cup will start on September 20, 2024.
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