Rafael Nadal had hoped to win his 20th Grand Slam at this year’s U.S. Open, which would have tied him for most wins in that category.
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Hector Vivas/Getty Images
Rafael Nadal had hoped to win his 20th Grand Slam at this year’s U.S. Open, which would have tied him for most wins in that category.
Hector Vivas/Getty Images
Rafael Nadal will skip this year’s U.S. Open, the defending champion announced in a series of tweets on Tuesday, citing concerns over the coronavirus and his desire not to travel amid the pandemic.
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.
— Rafa Nadal (@RafaelNadal) August 4, 2020
Spain’s Nadal would have attempted to tie Roger Federer for most Grand Slam titles — 20. Nadal is the second player to pull out of the tournament in recent days. Ashleigh Barty, the world No. 1 women singles player, announced last week she would not compete in the tournament, which starts Aug. 31, as a result of the pandemic.
As cases of the coronavirus continue to surge, U.S. sport franchises have had to assess how to safely allow players to compete in an industry that typically relies on throngs of cheering fans and close interactions between players.
Major League Baseball, the National Basketball Association and the National Hockey League have all launched regular seasons, none with fans in attendance.
Still, the virus has already infiltrated the MLB, particularly within the Miami Marlins, where at least 17 players and two coaches have tested positive for the illness. League-wide, more than 80 players and two dozen coaches have been confirmed positive.
In the NBA, teams have been strictly sequestered in a “bubble” at Walt Disney World Resort outside of Orlando, Fla., where the remaining regular season games will be played. Eight teams did not qualify for the abbreviated season.
