Casper Ruud has withdrawn from the US Open just minutes after play got underway on Sunday. The Norwegian finished runner-up in Flushing Meadows four years ago but will not be in action this year, pulling out due to a back injury.
Fitness concerns before the tournament
Ruud was the No. 19 seed in New York, but there were concerns about his fitness when he retired mid-match at the Cincinnati Open earlier this month. He still took to the court alongside Diana Shnaider in the mixed doubles event earlier this week, reaching the semi-finals, but looked physically hampered.
Impact on the draw
His withdrawal leaves a gap in the men's singles draw at the final Grand Slam of the year. Further details about the replacement or scheduling adjustments have not yet been announced.
—
