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For Rafael Nadal, his 2024 US Open journey ended before it could begin.

Despite a legion of fans hoping for him to once again grace the court at Arthur Ashe Stadium, the tennis legend announced he will not be competing at this year’s tournament.

While noting he has “amazing memories” at the tournament, Rafael wrote in an Aug. 7 Instagram post, “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,” he continued, confirming his next tournament will be the Laver Cup in Berlin. “Will miss you all and will see you another time. Best of luck to all for the always amazing US Open!”

Of his 22 Grand Slam titles, the Spaniard has taken home the title at a total of four US Opens, with his last win in 2019.

Though disappointing, the 38-year-old’s decision does not come as a shock.

While navigating injuries—including hip surgery in 2023 and issue with his abdominal muscles in 2024—Rafael has been strategic in picking and choosing which tournaments and events he wants to participate in, and which he’ll pass on to better prepare for future opportunities.

And one of those big opportunities was the 2024 Paris Olympics, where—as a two-time gold medalist and fan-favorite within France, having won a staggering 14 French Opens—he was given the honor of bearing the Olympic torch for a portion of the Opening Ceremony.

During the Games, Rafael made it to the second round of the singles tournament—losing to eventual gold medal winner Novak Djokovic—and to the quarterfinal round of the double’s tournament alongside his fellow Spaniard Carlos Alcaraz, who would go on to earn the men’s singles silver medal.

Following the pair’s loss, Rafael reflected on the journey he and the 21-year-old had taken together. 

“Thank you @carlitosalcarazz for these days that have been fantastic in so many ways,” he captioned an August 2 Instagram post. “Unforgettable experience with you and the whole team. And now the most important thing; come on Carlos go for the medal, you’re closer after today's victory, you can do it. We are all with you!”

And to his many fans, he added, “Thanks to all of you, all sports fans who made these games special with so much warmth and love. Even I didn’t have the result I was hoping for, you all made me feel great. Now it’s time to go back home, enjoy some holidays and think about what’s next.”

Meanwhile, Carlos was sure to pen his own message of gratitude to his countryman.

“Many thanks Rafa for this week and for having shared the floor playing for Spain,” he captioned an August 1 post. “Today wasn’t meant to be, but I carry with me a mountain of things for the future! It has been very special!”

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