Nadal out of US Open

Rafael Nadal: Will not be ready to compete in the US Open this month

Former champion Rafael Nadal will not compete in this year's US Open due to the knee injury that has kept him sidelined since Wimbledon.

The world number three, who completed his set of grand slams by winning in New York in 2010, was forced to miss the Olympics and the Masters Series events in Toronto and Cincinnati with the problem.

Nadal also reached last year's final in Flushing Meadows only to lose in four sets to Novak Djokovic.

"I am very sad to announce that I am still not ready to play and have to withdraw from this year's US Open in NYC."
Rafael Nadal Quotes of the week

The 26-year-old Spaniard has expressed his regret that he will not be able to compete later this month, stating he has always enjoyed playing in New York.

Not ready

"I am very sad to announce that I am still not ready to play and have to withdraw from this year's US Open in NYC," said Nadal in a statement.

"I am sorry since I always found great crowds and great support, but I have to continue with my recuperation and preparation to be ready to play in the right conditions.

"I want to say hi and thanks to all the fans, in particular to the New Yorkers. I'll miss you all this year at the Open!"

Nadal has not played since his shock defeat by Czech Lukas Rosol in the second round of Wimbledon in June, after which he hinted all was not well.

He has been dogged by knee problems throughout his career, although he has stressed this injury is not related to his previous problems, and took a month off after the Australian Open this year to give his body a rest.

US Open tournament director David Brewer is looking forward to having Nadal compete in the 2013 tournament.

"Rafa has informed us that he will not be ready to compete at the US Open this year and has withdrawn from the tournament," commented Brewer.

"We hope to see him back on the court soon and look forward to his return to New York next year."