File photo of Spain’s Rafael Nadal. (Reuters)
NEW YORK: Defending champion
Rafael Nadal
said Tuesday he will not play the
US Open
, citing concerns over the coronavirus and slamming tennis’s “barbaric” revised calendar.
“After many thoughts I have decided not to play this year’s US Open,” Nadal said on Twitter.
“The situation is very complicated worldwide, the Covid-19 cases are increasing, it looks like we still don’t have control of it.
After many thoughts I have decided not to play this year’s US Open. The situation is very complicated worldwide, th… https://t.co/1faQxBaCTg
— Rafa Nadal (@RafaelNadal) 1596565140000
“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.”
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