Rafael Nadal (right) was forced to stop the match against Juan Martin del Potro in the second set. Photo: Getty ImagesA weary and wounded Rafael Nadal has retired from his US Open semi-final while trailing Juan Martin del Potro, sending the Argentine back to the Flushing Meadows final for the first time since his 2009 triumph. Nadal, the world No 1 who had never before retired from a US Open match, showed signs of distress almost from the start on Friday as he limped noticeably after a gruelling 69-minute opening set. The defending champion had his knee massaged and re-taped and bravely continued through the second set before telling the umpire he was unable to continue at 7-6(3) 6-2. He's staying more solid and not giving me many free points," said Nishikori, who reached the final at Flushing Meadows in 2014.

Source: Otago Daily Times September 07, 2018 23:15 UTC