Rafael Nadal won't defend his 2019 U.S. Open title at this year's tournament. Robert Deutsch-USA TODAY Sports

Rafael Nadal to skip U.S. Open over coronavirus concerns

By Zac Wassink | Last updated 8/4/20

Defending U.S. Open champion Rafael Nadal announced via Twitter on Tuesday that he will skip this year's edition of the tournament due to the ongoing coronavirus 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

The 34-year-old, who won his fourth U.S. Open in 2019, thanked tournament organizers and added he does not wish to travel amid the uncontrolled virus outbreak.

All my respects to the USTA, the US Open organisers and the ATP for trying to put the event together for the players and the fans around the world through TV.
— Rafa Nadal (@RafaelNadal) August 4, 2020

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. pic.twitter.com/8VA0aSACVy
— Rafa Nadal (@RafaelNadal) August 4, 2020

Nadal's announcement comes as no surprise to those who have followed his feelings on the subject throughout the summer. In late June, Nadal's uncle and former coach, Toni Nadal, told ESPN Deportes he wasn't sure if the all-time great would participate in this year's U.S. Open scheduled from Aug. 31 to Sept. 13 in New York.

Back in May, Nadal suggested he'd skip the remainder of the 2020 calendar and focus on 2021.

Ash Barty, the no. 1 ranked women's player in the world, opted out of the U.S. Open last week.

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