Andy Murray hints at more big name US Open withdrawals after Ashleigh Barty decision

Three-time Grand Slam winner Andy Murray says he is aware of a number of players who will not play at the upcoming US Open.

The US Open is currently scheduled to get underway on August 31 and preparations have already started to get the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center ready.

The venue will host the Western and Southern Open and US Open back-to-back with players to be asked to stay in close proximity in an effort to prevent the possibility of someone contracting coronavirus.

On Wednesday, the world No 1 Ashleigh Barty confirmed she won’t be travelling to the US, citing the ‘significant risks involved’.

Players on the ATP and WTA were listed on the entry list for Western and Southern Open but they can still withdraw.

It means it is not clear how many players will actually decide to make the trip to America.

The likes of Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal have expressed their concerns about travelling but both were on the list.

With most players having not competed in over four months, the Western and Southern Open will act as a crucial warm-up event for the US Open.

Murray is among the players who have been able to play competitively in recent weeks.

And this week he is playing in the Battle of the Brits event at the LTA’s National Tennis Centre.

Speaking after teaming up with Lloyd Glasspool to beat Dom Inglot and Alastair Gray, Murray spoke to the media and revealed he is aware of players who have yet to announce their intention to pull out of the US Open.

“The Ash Barty withdrawal, I think we will see it quite a bit,” Murray said.

“I have heard some of the top male players aren’t going to play. I would expect that would be the case.

“It’s everyone’s personal decision. If they don’t feel safe, and don’t feel comfortable, traveling and going there and putting themselves and their team at an increased risk, then it’s completely understandable.

“All of the players will have some reservations and it’s whether or not you feel comfortable taking that risk.

“Like I said the other day, my feeling is once we are inside that bubble they created, we will be okay. It’s more the international travel, and getting there which I will be a bit concerned about it.”

source: express.co.uk