AceShowbiz - Rafael Nadal, the 38-year-old 22-time Grand Slam champion, has made the decision not to compete in the 2024 U.S. Open, which is set to take place from August 26 through September 8 at Arthur Ashe Stadium in New York.

In a statement posted on social media, Nadal expressed his regret for missing the tournament, saying that he has "amazing memories" of it. However, he explained that he does not believe he can give his full effort this time around.

"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," Nadal wrote. "Thanks to all my US Fans in particular, will miss you all and will see you another time."

Nadal's withdrawal is not a complete surprise. Earlier this year, he had hinted that 2024 would be his final year on the tour due to hip surgery. He has also recently dealt with abdominal muscle issues that limited his number of matches in the past two seasons.

Despite his recent setbacks, Nadal is a four-time U.S. Open champion, having won the tournament in 2010, 2013, 2017, and 2019. His absence this year means he will have missed the hard-court tournament in four of the past five years.

The U.S. Tennis Association announced that Mackie McDonald, the American who is ranked No. 93, will take Nadal's place in the tournament. McDonald defeated Nadal at the 2023 Australian Open.

Nadal's withdrawal from the U.S. Open has sparked speculation about his future in tennis. While he has not announced any plans to retire, his age and recent injury history suggest that he may not have much time left on the tour.