Rafael Nadal will skip the current year’s U.S. Open, the defending champion declared in a series of tweets on Tuesday, refering to worries over the coronavirus and his longing not to go in the midst of the pandemic.
Spain’s Nadal would have endeavored to tie Roger Federer for most men’s Grand Slam titles — 20. Nadal is the second player to pull out of the competition in recent days. Ashleigh Barty, the world’s No. 1 women’s singles player, reported a week ago that due to the pandemic, she would not contend in the competition, which begins Aug. 31.
As instances of the coronavirus keep on surge, U.S. sport franchises have needed to evaluate how to securely permit players to contend in an industry that ordinarily depends on crowds of cheering fans and close collaborations between players.
The MLB, the NBA and the NHL have all propelled regular seasons, none with fans in participation.
In any case, the infection has just penetrated the MLB, especially within the Miami Marlins, where at least 17 players and two coaches have tested positive for the virus. League-wide, in excess of 80 players and two dozen mentors have been affirmed positive.
In the NBA, groups have been carefully sequestered in a “bubble” at Walt Disney World Resort outside Orlando, Fla., where the staying regular season games will be played. Eight teams didn’t qualify for the contracted season.
