Rafael Nadal’s announcement that he will not be competing in the 2024 US Open confirmed the sad news that the tennis world was expecting.

To offer himself the opportunity to compete, the tennis star had put his name on the entrance list for the US Open, which takes place from August 26 to September 8.

However, when asked about his chances of playing at Flushing Meadows during the Swedish Open and the Paris Olympics, Nadal expressed skepticism.

Nadal said in a message on his social media pages on Wednesday that he had withdrew because he didn’t think he could give it his all.

Nadal stated, “Hey everyone, just wanted to let you know that I have decided not to compete at the US Open this year—a place where I have amazing memories.”

“Those intense and unique night sessions at Ashe in New York City will always hold a special place in my heart, but I doubt I could give it my all this time.”

“Thanks especially to all of my US fans; I will miss you all and see you soon. Cheers to everyone’s success at the always fantastic US Open!

For the first time since making his major debut in 2003, Rafael Nadal will conclude a season without taking home a trophy at a Grand Slam event due to his choice to skip this year’s US Open.

The 38-year-old faced Alexander Zverev in the first round of the French Open in May, which was his lone Grand Slam encounter of the year.

The Spaniard opted to forego Wimbledon last month in order to focus on the Paris Olympics after missing the Australian Open in January due to injuries.

After being professional in 2001, Rafael Nadal participated in his first major competition in 2003 at the Wimbledon Championships. To date, he has participated in 68 Grand Slam events. Since making his debut, he has now missed 17 majors.

The former world number one has won 22 major championships, which is the second-highest amount in men’s tennis history, and has an incredible 314-44 (88%) record in Grand Slam matches.

Eight incredible times in his career, Rafael Nadal has won 20 or more Grand Slam matches in a single season: in 2007 (20-3), 2008 (24-2), 2010 (25-1), 2011 (23-3), 2017 (23-2), 2018 (21-3), 2019 (24-2) and 2022 (22-1).

The 92-time ATP singles champion has announced that the Laver Cup, which takes place in Berlin from September 20–22, will be his next competition.