Rafael Nadal to miss 2024 US Open, plans to return at Laver Cup in Berlin

Rafael Nadal announced that he will not compete at the 2024 US Open, which was thought to be his final Grand Slam appearance, on social media Wednesday afternoon.

“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 wrote. “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 to all my US Fans in particular, will miss you all and will see you another time. Best of lucks to all for the always amazing US Open! My next event will be the Laver Cup in Berlin.”

Nadal had previously suggested that 2024 would be his final season on tour, but the former world No. 1 has walked that idea back in recent months, bristling at the idea that his match against Novak Djokovic at the 2024 Summer Olympic would be a “last dance” between the two illustrious champions.

The 22-time major winner lost that match to Djokovic in the second round of what will likely be his final Olympic appearance, having sat out the Wimbledon Championships in preparation for a return to Stade Roland Garros. Following his singles defeat, he partnered Carlos Alcaraz for a rousing performance in men’s doubles, falling just short of the medal rounds in a quarterfinal defeat to eventual silver medalists Austin Krajicek and Rajeev Ram.

A four-time US Open champion, Nadal last captured the trophy in Flushing Meadows back in 2019—where he defeated Daniil Medvedev in five dramatic sets—and had was entered into the 2024 draw with a protected ranking.

Nadal confirmed that his next on-court appearance is scheduled to be at the 2024 Laver Cup in Berlin, where he had previously announced his participation. He did not confirm that Laver Cup would be the final appearance of his career, leaving the door open for further competition down the road.

Nadal's withdrawal also means that American Mackenzie McDonald moves into the main draw of the US Open, which is set to begin August 26.