The big question mark is Rafael Nadal’s health – Andy Roddick on prediction of US Open winner

Former World No.1 Andy Roddick feels it is difficult to predict the winner of the upcoming US Open. The American believes a lot will depend on Rafael Nadal’s health and if the Spaniard can stay at the top of his fitness, he is going to be a serious contender for the title in New York.

Roddick, who was known for his potent serve, has also put his money on Daniil Medvedev to defend his title at the US Open. Medvedev has a good game on hard courts and he is going to be a center of attraction.

Meanwhile, Rafael Nadal recently made a return to the tour in the Cincinnati Masters but he was knocked out by eventual champion Borna Coric in the second round.

Nadal had returned after a six-week layoff after recovering from an abdomen injury that he had suffered in the Wimbledon quarterfinal against Taylor Fritz. In fact, Nadal also recently admitted that he isn’t 100% fit.

Roddick said it is difficult to predict the US Open winner as currently the World No.152 Borna Coric clinched his maiden ATP 1000 masters title.

“Well, it’s tough to give a prediction on the finals when we don’t even have a draw,” Roddick said while talking to the New York Post. “I think Daniil Medvedev is about the safest money in the tournament right now, obviously on the heels of last year, and he’s proven that he likes the courts.”

“The big question mark is Rafa’s health. He’s only had one match since he pulled out of Wimbledon. The lead-up tournaments have had some surprising winners, a guy who was ranked 150 in the world (Borns Coric) just won Cincinnati. For the first time in a long time, I think there are more question marks than answers,” Roddick added.

On the other hand, Rafael Nadal will be the second seed at the US Open after Alexander Zverev was ruled out of the tournament due to an ankle injury, which he suffered in the Roland Garros semifinal against the veteran Spaniard.

US Open will begin on August 29.