“End of an era” – Fans speculate retirement as Rafael Nadal withdraws from the upcoming US Open
Tennis lovers are disheartened as Rafael Nadal withdraws from the upcoming US Open, citing that he is not ready.
Rafael Nadal (Via Imago)
On Wednesday, Rafael Nadal announced his withdrawal from the upcoming US Open, citing his performance doubt. He took to his social media accounts to announce that he could not give his 100% to the tournament and hence decided to pull out.
The US Open is set to begin on August 26th, but Nadal has already withdrawn. He announced his next appearance will be at the Laver Cup in Berlin in September. Fans speculate he might retire at that tournament.
Roger Federer previously retired at the Laver Cup (2022), leading fans to speculate that Nadal might do the same. This will be the third Grand Slam Nadal misses this year, as he only competes in tournaments he feels ready for.
The Spaniard last played in the Paris Olympics, competing in both singles and doubles. He was visibly out of form in singles and lost to eventual winner Novak Djokovic in the second round. Additionally, a minor injury to his right thigh could be the real reason he opted out of the upcoming Slam.
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.
— Rafa Nadal (@RafaelNadal) August 7, 2024
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
Nadal’s decision has led fans to speculate that he is nearing retirement. Although he hasn’t said much about it recently, he previously mentioned that this year might be his last on tour. If true, Nadal won’t be returning to the US Open again.
Fans react to Rafael Nadal’s possible retirement after his US Open withdrawal
Many tennis lovers were disappointed after Rafael Nadal announced his withdrawal from the US Open. He decided to opt out of the tournament because he wasn’t ready to give his 100%.
However, fans will see him at the Laver Cup. Here are some of the reactions from the internet regarding this development.
this feels like a retirement post, end of an era ?
— sohom (@AwaaraHoon) August 7, 2024
Oh, been looking forward to watch US Open again (after years of not) since Federer retired thinking you'll at least play… but health first, of course ?.. anyway, excited for Laver in Berlin with you and Roger ?
— G Tea (@Grietea) August 7, 2024
Sounds like a retirement announcement of sorts.
— ? soldatchristi.polygon ? (@SoldatChristi) August 7, 2024
When will be the last dance?
— Carlos G. Chaves (@CGChaves) August 7, 2024
Devastating news but it is for the best. Hope to see you soon Rafa ❤️
— GAME TO LOVE (@GTLTennis) August 7, 2024
Sad news… but we saw at the Olympics that Rafa is far from 100%.
— Alex (@CrossAssetChart) August 7, 2024
Damn, this sounds like a retirement announcement
— Doc (Europoor Arc) (@docXBT) August 7, 2024
Nadal withdraws from the U.S Open… and you can't help but think that's the end of his Grand Slam career. @wwos @9NewsAUS https://t.co/FI6Z3PwSJB
— Nicole Dunn (@msnicoledunn) August 7, 2024
In the aforementioned post, Nadal also thanked his US fans, promising to see them another time, and mentioned he would miss the nights at Arthur Ashe Stadium. This announcement was expected, given his recent press conference.
After the quarterfinal loss alongside Carlos Alcaraz in the men’s doubles, Nadal hesitated before answering. He didn’t give a straightforward answer about his participation then, but finally announced his withdrawal.
In Case You Missed It:
- Rafael Nadal confirms US Open withdrawal, will play Laver Cup next
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Laxman Naren
(1457 Articles Published)