The Field Lightens As We Lead Up To The 2017 US Open

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.

About the Author

Joe McDonald

Editor-in-Chief
Joe McDonald is the founder and former publisher of NY Sports Day. After selling to i15Media in 2020, he serves as the Editor-in-Chief and responsible for the editorial side of the publication. In the past, Joe was the managing editor of NY Sportscene magazine and assistant editor of Mets Inside Pitch. He has covered the Mets since 2004.

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