Injured Nadal faces US Open fitness race

World No 2 Rafa Nadal faces a fitness battle ahead of the US Open after being forced to withdraw from the Rogers Cup with a wrist injury.

The Spaniard was due to defend his crown at the tournament that begins in Toronto on August 2 but released a statement revealing he is not fit to play.

He will also miss the Cincinnati Masters, where he would also have been the defending champion, the following week as he has been advised he needs up to three weeks rest ahead of the US Open which starts at Flushing Meadows on August 25.

Nadal said: "Unfortunately I injured my right wrist yesterday (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."

Nadal is the reigning US Open champion having beaten Novak Djokovic on the New York hardcourt in last year's final.

The 28-year-old has not played since his shock Wimbledon fourth round defeat to Australian teenager Nick Kyrgios four weeks ago.