18 June 2020

Defending champion Bianca Andreescu releases statement on US Open but doesn’t actually commit to being there

Defending champion Bianca Andreescu has confused tennis fans by releasing a statement supporting the go-ahead of the 2020 US Open but not saying whether she’ll be playing.

The 20 year-old Canadian, who claimed her maiden Grand Slam title when she beat Serena Williams in last year’s final, said the event would always ‘hold a very special place’ in her heart.

Andreescu beat Serena Williams in the 2019 final (Zuma Press/PA Images)

"Arthur Ashe is where I won my first grand slam title and I treasure so many unforgettable moments at the Billie Jean King National Tennis Centre,” she added.

The young player acknowledged the huge change that has happened since the coronavirus pandemic and added that health of players and all involved is more important than the resumption of competitive tennis.

"I have no doubt that the USTA has come up with the best plan to ensure our safety as we look to the return of tennis in 2020," she continued.

"The decision, I know was not made lightly and I completely support and understand every player’s personal opinions on the matter and their comfort level travelling near and far to compete on the world’s biggest stage."

She finished by saying: "I plan to make the most of the opportunity to get back on the court, re-connect with players and friends and hopefully bring tennis back to the millions of fans across the globe safely.”

The US Open was given the green light on Tuesday when New York Governor Andrew Cuomo approved plans from the USTA to hold the event behind closed doors with restrictions and adaptations in place.

It will take place at Flushing Meadows from August 31-September 13, finishing just a week before the rescheduled French Open.

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