‘I have decided not to return to New York this year’ – US Open loses second defending champion
The US Open has lost a second defending champion with Bianca Andreescu confirming she will miss the year’s event, in part due to the coronavirus crisis.
The Canadian powered to her first Grand Slam title at Flushing Meadows last year, beating Serena Williams in an absorbing final.
However, she has struggled with injury since, and claims the coronavirus situation has stopped her from being able to properly recovery from her latest problems.
“After many discussions with those closest to me, I have made the difficult decision not to return to New York this year,” Andreesecu wrote on Instagram.
“I have taken this step in order to focus on my match fitness and ensure that I return ready to play at my highest level.
“The US Open victory last year has been the high point of my career thus far and I will miss not being there
“However, I realise that the unforeseen challenges, including the Covid pandemic, have compromised my ability to prepare and compete to the degree necessary to play at my highest level.
“I want to express my appreciation to the USTA and the WTA for all of their efforts in making the event happen.
“I look forward to joining my competitors back on court soon.”
Men’s champion Rafael Nadal has also withdrawn, as has women’s number one Ashleigh Barty. Felow top-ten stars Elina Svitolina and Kiki Bertens have also decided to opt out.
- Join the tennishead CLUB and receive £250/$350 of FREE GEAR including ASICS Gel-Resolution 8 trainers, shorts, shirt & socks
- Keep up to date with the breaking news & tennis action at our tennis news section
- Win amazing prizes by entering our competitions
- Learn more about your favourite players including Roger Federer, Rafa Nadal and Novak Djokovic
- Check out the latest tennis equipment with our tennis gear reviews
- Receive regular updates in our legendary free newsletter
- Read in depth features with stunning photography in tennishead magazine
- Can’t visit the tournaments you love? Check out our guide on how to watch tennis on TV
- Don’t miss a thing with our Live Scores service
- Follow tennishead on social media at Facebook, Twitter, Instagram & YouTube
- EXCLUSIVE 5% DISCOUNT for all tennishead readers on tennis rackets, balls, clothing, shoes & accessories with All Things Tennis, our dedicated tennis gear partner