Tennis: Kei Nishikori tests positive for COVID-19 ahead of US Open

Kei Nishikori, Japan’s top male tennis star, has tested positive for coronavirus and has withdrawn from the Western & Southern Open which starts next week.

“This morning while still in Florida, I got tested for COVID-19 and tested positive,” said Nishikori said. “I will have to pull out of the Cincinnati tournament at this time. Me and my team will get tested again on Friday at which point I will have another update.”

The 30-year-old further said he is “feeling well” but will now isolate and get tested again on Friday.

According to America’s public health authority, those who test positive for coronavirus must isolate themselves for 10 days. Under those rules, Nishikori’s isolation would end on August 26, five days before the US Open begins in New York.

Defending champions Rafael Nadal and Bianca Andreescu have already withdrawn from this year’s US Open - slated to begin from August 31 - due to COVID-19. Men’s No. 1 Novak Djokovic has confirmed he will play at the major.

Women’s world No. 1 Ashleigh Barty, Elina Svitolina, Kiki Bertens and Nick Kyrgios have also withdrawn from the tournament, while Andy Murray is expected to compete after being granted a wildcard.