Rafael Nadal is facing a race to be fit for the US Open after withdrawing from the Rogers Cup in Toronto because he needs up to three weeks rest due to a wrist injury.
The Spanish world number two was looking forward to trying to defend his title in the tournament which starts on August 2 but he has confirmed he will not be fit enough to feature because of the injury.
Nadal will also miss out on the opportunity to defend his Cincinnati Masters a week later as he has been advised to rest the wrist.
It means that the 28-year-old, who has not played since his surprise fourth round Wimbledon defeat at the hands of Australian teenager Nick Kyrgios last month, will not get any hardcourt practice time before looking to defend his US Open crown at Flushing Meadows from August 25 if he is fit to participate.
Nadal said: “Unfortunately I injured my right wrist on Tuesday during practice and after checking with my doctors I will have to stay out of competition for at least 2-3 weeks.
“I am sorry to the tournament and to all of the fans.
“I’m extremely disappointed that I am unable to defend my titles and compete in Toronto and Cincinnati this year. I was looking forward to coming and playing again after my great results last year.”
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