World No.1 Ash Barty Pulls Out Of US Open

Ash Barty won't be travelling to America.

The World No. 1 announced she will not compete at the 2020 US Open amid coronavirus fears.

Despite housing the largest number of COVID-19 cases in the world, United States officials are still adamant that the prestigious tournament will go ahead at the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in New York.

PA

But even if the competition successfully gets underway, it seems a number of high-profile stars will be absent - including Aussie sensation Barty.

"My team and I have decided that we won't be travelling to the US for the Western and Southern Open and the US Open this year," Barty said.

"I love both events so it was a difficult decision but there are still significant risks involved due to COVID-19 and I don't feel comfortable putting my team and I in that position.

"I wish the USTA all the best for the tournaments and look forward to being back in the US next year."

The 140th edition of the US Open was initially postponed and has been rescheduled for an August 31st start date.

But despite fears over contestants potentially withdrawing, it appears tournament officials are still eager to put on a show.

The Southern and Western Open, which is a warm-up for the US Open, already has several big-name players missing from its lineup including Naomi Osaka, Simona Halep and Bianca Andreescu.

Topics: SPORT, Ash Barty, Tennis, Coronavirus, travel, US Open, Australia, Covid-19

Max Sherry

Max Sherry is a journalist for SPORTbible Australia. After migrating Down Under from London as a teenager, he instantly fell in love with Aussie sport and its culture. From NRL to AFL, cricket to rugby — you name it, Max watches it (with a beer in hand, of course). During his time at Fox Sports, he worked in the football department covering the Premier League, A-League, Socceroos and Matildas. Born a stone's throw away from West Ham's training ground, Max is obviously a die-hard Liverpool fan.

@maxysherry