More superstars pull out of US Grand Slam tournament

The U.S Open has seen a host of tennis superstars withdraw from competing.

World number five, Elina Svitolina, and world number seven, Kiki Bertens, become the latest players to pull out of the grand slam event.

Ukraine’s Elina Svitolina, who was a semi-finalist last year in the same event, said in a statement that she did not feel comfortable travelling to the US “without putting her team and herself at high risk.”

Kiki Bertens on the other hand also pulled out because of Dutch government regulations that require people returning from the United States to quarantine for two weeks.

The 28-year-old claims it would disturb preparations for her “beloved clay-court tournaments.”

Australia’s world number one Ashleigh Barty, and World number two, Simona Halep aren’t expected to play in the US Open either after joining the list of women’s top 20 players to have withdrawn so far.

Men’s world number two and current defending champion Rafael Nadal would not compete for fear of the coronavirus and automatically puts a hold on his bid to equal Roger Federer’s Grand Slam record in the men’s division.

Nadal said, “We know that the reduced tennis calendar is barbaric this year after four months stopped with no play, I understand and thank for the efforts they are putting in to make it happen. We have just seen the announcement of Madrid not being played this year.

“All my respects to the USTA, the US Open organisers and the ATP for trying to put the event together for the players and the fans around the world through TV.

“This is a decision I never wanted to take but I have decided to follow my heart this time and for the time being I rather not travel.”

Roger Federer also won’t be competing as he is currently recovering from injury, but world number one, Novak Djokovic, is on the entry list.

Andy Murray, however, has said he’s willing to take the risk and play in the US Open as he likes to compete in these big tournaments.

Australian Nick Kyrgios is another prominent competitor who would not be involved, but Serena Williams would definitely feature.

The tournament is scheduled to begin on 31 August and will be played without fans.