The end is near: Rafael Nadal withdraws from US Open

The 22-time grand slam champion hinted after his Olympics exit that he would skip the final major of the year at Flushing Meadows.

Nadal has won the US Open on four occasions but competed there only once since his 2019 triumph after a number of injury struggles in recent years, which has sparked continuous debate over when he will retire.

"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," Nadal posted on his official X page.

"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 per cent this time.

"Thanks to all my US fans in particular, will miss you all and will see you another time. Best of luck to all for the always amazing US Open!

"My next event will be the Laver Cup in Berlin."

Nadal's commitment to playing at the Laver Cup next month could raise the prospect of the Spaniard following in the footsteps of great rival and friend Roger Federer by retiring at the Ryder Cup-style event.

Federer walked away from professional tennis in 2022 after an emotional farewell at the Laver Cup in London, where he played competitively for the last time in a doubles match alongside Nadal.

A similar outcome for Nadal could be on the cards given his injury struggles in recent years.

The 38-year-old missed the majority of 2023 after he sustained a hip injury at the Australian Open and has been selective in the events he has played this season, electing to miss Wimbledon to prioritise his Olympic preparations.

A shot at another Olympic medal, with Roland Garros hosting the Paris Games tennis tournament, was behind Nadal's decision to skip Wimbledon, but he lost early in the singles to old foe Novak Djokovic before he tasted quarter-final disappointment in the doubles with Carlos Alcaraz.

Nadal's lingering wave to all sides of Court Philippe Chatrier after defeat to American duo Austin Krajicek and Rajeev Ram on July 31 was indicative of someone who may not return to the venue where he won 14 French Open titles.

The Laver Cup will be held in Berlin between September 20-22.

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