Another day, another withdrawal.
Seems like every day leading up to the US Open you have a major name dropping out of the US Open, which starts next week.
Yesterday, Victoria Azarenka dropped out because of a custody fight over her infant son, Leo.
“I am sadly unable to compete in this year’s US Open due to my ongoing family situation that I am working through,” she said in a statement. “While I will dearly miss being in New York and playing in one of my favorite tournaments where I have enjoyed some of the best moments in my career, I am already looking forward to being back next year.”
The two-time runner-up at the Open withdraws just a few days after the 2001 Open Champion Samantha Stosur dropped out because of a right hand injury.
With Serena Williams still out due to her pregnancy, there’s a wide open field. And Maria Sharapova was granted a Wild Card, something not afforded to her at other Grand Slams since her return from a suspension.
Over on the men’s side last year’s champion Stan Wawrinka is out as is Novak Djokovic. Top 10 player Kei Nishikori pulled out because of a wrist injury.
All of this is paving the way for a Rafa Nadal vs Rodger Federer showdown if the draws put them in opposing brackets, which meet in the Final.
That will happen on Friday as the Open will cap off a series of events in the city, specifically down at the South Street Seaport with the draw down in the Financial District.
The Seaport site will be transformed into a modified version of the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center featuring a recreation of the famed Unisphere at one end of Schermerhorn Row and anchored by a performance stage and “roofed” court at the north end of Schermerhorn Row. Visitors to the US Open Experience will be treated to a full slate of events, including player appearances, autograph signings, photo opportunities, food tastings and musical performances.
Should be a fun time. Hopefully there won’t be many more withdrawals.