Tennis action continues to flow in from the courts of Cincinnati, as top stars prepare for the US Open. However, even as fans stayed glued to the enthralling entertainment on display, it was Rafael Nadal’s off-court news that made center stage headlines. The Spanish maestro recently announced his withdrawal from the upcoming US Open and will spend the rest of the season on the sidelines.

Former World No. 1, Rafael Nadal fell victim to injury yet again, which saw him retire from the remaining 2021 season. Undoubtedly, fans who were looking forward to his comeback are devastated. His departure would also mean a significant loss of points, resulting in a drop in the ATP rankings. This would mean Nadal will not compete at the year-end classic Nitto ATP Finals, opening the door for a few others.

How does Rafael Nadal’s exit affect the ATP rankings?

The ATP Finals Turin is the year-end climax to the ATP tour. The prestigious event takes place in iconic locations every year, with Turin being its host this season. What makes this event so special is its star-studded lineup. Only the top 8 athletes in the official ATP ranking qualify for the tournament, battling it out to be crowned the best of the best.

With Rafael Nadal’s exit, there is a significant change in the official lineup.

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Rafael Nadal’s departure means he loses 2000 points from the US Open. He makes way for Hubert Hurkacz, who lies in 8th place with 2460 points.

On the other hand, Novak Djokovic leads the race to Turin with 7170 points to his name. Not far behind him lie Stefanos Tsitsipas and Daniil Medvedev, with 5155 and 4200 points, respectively.

2021 Wimbledon Championship finalist, Matteo Berrettini edges past Andrey Rublev with the finest of margins. He lies in 4th place with 3595 points to his name, whereas Rublev bags 5th with 3520 points of his own.

A fan-favorite after his heroics at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, gold medalist Alexander Zverev is on his way to Turin with 3375 points. He is joined by Norwegian international Casper Ruud, who has 2630 points to his name.

These are the top 8 athletes right now, who will put on a show in Turin in November, later this year. However, rankings can take a dramatic turn, courtesy of the US Open action.

WATCH THIS STORY: Rafael Nadal’s Top-Five Worst Injuries

Unfortunate yet again

It’s been an injury-riddled season for the 4-time US Open champion. From facing a back injury earlier this year to the most recent foot injury that ruled him out of the National Bank Open and the Cincinnati Open, he has had few to no appearances. However, his withdrawal from the remainder of the season was the biggest blow of all, as fans were expecting a resurrection from the giant.

He joins fellow ‘G.O.A.T’ Roger Federer and defending champion Dominic Thiem in the injured list, missing out on the iconic tournament. Nevertheless, fans look forward to an ultimate return next season. They’re hopeful of a legendary comeback from the man who’s everything and continues to strive for greatness.

Rafael Nadal in Season 2021: A Year Hampered With Injuries