The legend puts out a lengthy statement on Twitter, explaining the reason behind his decision.
Rafael Nadal produced a rich vein of form as he thrashed Greek teenager Stefanos Tsitsipas in straight sets to clinch his fourth Canadian Masters 1000 title at the Rogers Cup here in Toronto on Monday.
The world number one swept aside Tsitsipas 6-2, 7-6 in a thrilling summit clash of the men's singles event that lasted one hour and 41 minutes. With the win, the 17-time Grand Slam champion clinched his 80th ATP World Tour title and fifth victory of the year.
Soon after his triumph, Rafa announced that he won't be participating in the next ATP Masters 1000 event - Cincinnati Open. The legend put out a lengthy statement on Twitter, explaining the reason behind his decision.
"I am very sorry to announce that I won’t be playing in Cincinnati this year. No other reason than personally taking care of my body and trying to keep as healthy as I feel now," wrote Nadal.
"I am very thankful to my friend Andre Silva, Tournament Director of the Cincinnati tournament, who after speaking to him on the phone understood what I said and understand the situation. I am sure the tournament will be a success and I wish him and his team all the best.
"I am also sad for those amazing fans in Cincy and around who always gave me great support. I am sure I’ll see them next year and I am sorry I won’t be with them this year. Thanks for all the support as always," he concluded.
Here are Rafa's tweets
Heading into the clash on Monday, 19-year-old Tsitsipas-- who celebrated his birthday earlier in the day-- looked all set to upset another tennis giant but he failed to counter Nadal's steady and effective brand of tennis.
Earlier, Tsitsipas had pulled off one surprise after the other as he humbled the likes of Dominic Thiem, Alexander Zverev and 13-time Grand slam champion Novak Djokovic in the previous three rounds. He also brushed aside Wimbledon runner-up Kevin Anderson to reach his maiden ATP Masters 1000 final in Toronto.
With the spectacular win, Nadal secured his record-extending 33rd Masters 1000 title. The Spaniard also became the fourth player in the Open Era to win 80 titles and is now behind the likes of Ivan Lendll, Roger Federer, and Jimmy Connors.
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