Rafael Nadal has revealed he would not be playing at this year’s US Open, which begin later this month. The Spanish veteran made the announcement last week, stating his reason for pulling out as he does not think he would give “100% this time”. This would be the fifth US Open in a row where we won’t have Nadal play.

The announcement came days after crashing out of the Olympics where he failed to secure a medal as a singles and doubles player. To participate at the Olympics, Nadal skipped playing at Wimbledon. 

The sport has somewhat gotten used to him pulling out of big games like grand slams, and all of it serves as an indication that the former world number one could be retiring soon. 

The Big 4 is now down to two active players after Andy Murray retired after he was beaten out at the Olympics. Nadal’s retirement would not be long now.

Taking to social media to inform fans, Nadal wrote: “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. 

“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.”

The 22-time grand slam winner has suffered injuries in the past, which has forced him to pull out of competitions, but that does not seem to be the case this time as he does not simply feel up to it. Could this be a sign of something more serious? Probably. But Nadal has said we would see him with Team Spain at the Laver Cup which would hold in September, just when the US Open ends.