Rafael Nadal announced his withdrawal from Cincinnati last night after extending his lead at the top of the ATP World Tour Rankings.
The Spaniard managed to defeat Stefanos Tsitsipas 6-2 7-6(4) to win his 80th ATP World Tour title and in the process capture his 33rd Masters 1000 title in Toronto. Despite a very good week from the recently-turned 20 year old, he just didn’t have enough in the tank to win his 5th match against a top 10 player as Nadal triumphed.
However shortly after his fifth title of the season, the world number one announced that he wouldn’t be playing in Cincinnati next week as he aims to have enough energy left to defend his US Open title in two weeks time. In his statement below, he explained that he wants to look after his body and was sorry to the fans for not being able to attend there this week.
who after speaking to him on the phone understood what I said and understand the situation. I am sure the tournament will be a success and I wish him and his team all the best.
I am also sad for those amazing fans in Cincy and around who always gave me great support.— Rafa Nadal (@RafaelNadal) August 13, 2018
I am sure I’ll see them next year and I am sorry I won’t be with them this year.
Thanks for all the support as always.— Rafa Nadal (@RafaelNadal) August 13, 2018
Despite his withdrawal from the Western and Southern Open, he has now extended his lead at the top of the rankings to 3,740 points, with his nearest rival Roger Federer looking to close the gap this week in Ohio. As well as his big lead the Spaniard has become the first man to officially qualify for the ATP World Tour Finals in London in November.
