Ben Shelton has withdrawn from next week’s Laver Cup at The O2 Arena in London.
New world No 4 Shelton has pulled out of the Ryder Cup-style event on 25-27 September just a few days after his memorable run to the US Open final, where he lost to top seed Alexander Zverev.
Shelton has been replaced in Team World’s roster – captained by Andre Agassi – by world No 16 and fellow American Brandon Nakashima.
“I’m really excited to be making my Laver Cup debut in London,” said Nakashima. “It’s an event I’ve always dreamed of playing, and I can't wait to be part of Team World, competing alongside the guys and playing for Andre and Pat.
“Looking forward to getting to The O2 and doing everything I can to help the team.”
Despite his withdrawal, Shelton is set to represent the United States this weekend in their Davis Cup tie against Czechia in Prague.
Nakashima joins Alex de Minaur, Taylor Fritz, Alexander Bublik, Learner Tien and Francisco Cerundolo on Team World’s roster.
Team Europe, captained by Yannick Noah with Tim Henman as vice-captain, will boast Zverev, Carlos Alcaraz, Flavio Cobolli, Rafael Jodar, Jakub Mensik and Casper Ruud in their ranks.
Next week’s event in London, taking place four years on from Roger Federer’s final match in the 2022 edition, will be the ninth Laver Cup after the tournament debuted in Prague in 2017.
Team World have won three of the last four events, after Team Europe won the first four editions.
