Rafael Nadal believes Novak Djokovic’s withdrawal is ‘sad news’ for US Open

Djokovic is unable to travel to New York because he is unvaccinated against Covid-19.

Rafael Nadal has been happy with his form in practice (Julie Jacobson/AP) (AP)

Rafael Nadal described Novak Djokovic’s absence from the US Open as “very sad news”.

The Wimbledon champion is sitting out his second grand slam of the season because of his ongoing refusal to be vaccinated against Covid-19.

Djokovic waited to withdraw until just before the draw on Thursday having finally given up hope that the US Government would relax restrictions in time.