Rafael Nadal has said he will not play at the US Open 2024 because he does not “think I would be able to give my 100 per cent” in New York.
The 38-year-old made his first appearance at a major in 16 months at this year’s French Open, which will now be his only Grand Slam campaign of 2024.
“I have decided not to compete at this year’s US Open – a place where I have amazing memories,” Nadal announced on social media, calling night sessions at the tournament’s Arthur Ashe Stadium, which has a capacity of almost 24,000, “electric and special”.
“Thanks to all my US fans in particular,” added Nadal. “I will miss you all and will see you another time. Best of luck to all for the always-amazing US Open.”
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… pic.twitter.com/FluGRWUzIp— Rafa Nadal (@RafaelNadal) August 7, 2024
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Laver Cup 2024: Nadal plays
Long-term inactivity meant Nadal spent much of the early part of this year outside of the top 600, although he is currently at a year-high 161st, helped by a run to the final of the Swedish Open in July.
The 22-time Grand Slam champion exited the French Open in the first round and was knocked out in the second round at the Olympics, which he won in 2008, by familiar rival and fellow great Novak Djokovic.
Nadal also announced that his next event will be at the Laver Cup, which begins in Berlin on September 20 and will pit him against Team World as part of Team Europe.
World number three and compatriot Carlos Alcaraz partnered Nadal as the pair reached the doubles quarter-finals at the Games.
— Rafa Nadal (@RafaelNadal) July 26, 2024
Nadal: Olympics ‘fantastic’
“Thank you for these days that have been fantastic in many ways,” Nadal told the reigning Wimbledon champion afterwards. “Unforgettable experience with you and the entire team.”
Expectation was widespread that 2024 would prove Nadal’s final year on the tour before a run in Sweden which suggested his injury problems may not force any decision.
His last appearance at Flushing Meadows ended in the fourth round in 2022. The last of his four titles there came in 2019.
The most successful player in the history of Roland Garros could be particularly tempted by the prospect of playing next year in Paris, where he has triumphed 14 times.
