Rafael Nadal has pulled out of the US Open after reaching the quarter-finals of the men’s doubles at the Olympics with Carlos Alcaraz. Although he has not announced his retirement, he will miss the final Grand Slam of the year at Flushing Meadows. Nadal, a four-time champion at the US Open, will instead play at the Laver Cup in September.
Nadal shared on X that he has decided not to compete at the US Open due to concerns about not being able to give his 100%. He expressed his appreciation for his US fans and the special night sessions at Arthur Ashe Stadium, promising to return another time.
After missing most of the 2023 season, Nadal returned in January but had to withdraw from the Australian Open. He played in the clay season but was defeated in the first round of the French Open by Alexander Zverev. Skipping Wimbledon to focus on the Paris Olympics, he lost in the second round of the men’s singles to Novak Djokovic and reached the quarter-finals in doubles with Alcaraz.
Regarding his potential retirement, Sky Sports’ Nigel Chiu notes that while Nadal hasn’t indicated he will retire, he might attempt one more season, depending on his physical condition. Like Andy Murray, Nadal has faced numerous injuries but has always made comebacks. His participation in the Laver Cup, where Roger Federer retired two years ago, could hint at a similar retirement plan, but Nadal seems mentally prepared to continue for another year.
