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Sports News of Wednesday, 5 August 2020

Source: www.mynigeria.com

US Open: Defending champ, Rafael Nadal, pulls out

Rafael Nadal | USOpen Rafael Nadal | USOpen

Defending champion Rafael Nadal has withdrawn from this year’s US Open, set to start later this month.

The Spaniard said on Twitter: "After many thoughts I have decided not to play this year’s US Open. The situation is very complicated worldwide, the COVID-19 cases are increasing, it looks like we still don’t have control of it."

Nadal added: "We know that the reduced tennis calendar is barbaric this year after 4 months stopped with no play, I understand and thank for the efforts they are putting in to make it happen. We have just seen the announcement of Madrid not being played this year.

"All my respects to the USTA, the US Open organisers and the ATP for trying to put the event together for the players and the fans around the world through TV. This is a decision I never wanted to take but I have decided to follow my heart this time and for the time being I rather not travel.”