Reigning US Open women's singles champion Bianca Andreescu has announced that she will not defend her title at Flushing Meadows.

The 20-year-old Canadian beat Serena Williams in straight sets in last year's final, earning her maiden grand slam triumph.

However, Andreescu said the coronavirus pandemic has impacted on her ability to sufficiently prepare for the tournament and therefore has elected to stay away.

"I respect and appreciate everyone taking time, effort, and energy to organise these two events for the tennis players to be able to go back to their working field.

"Unfortunately for the players and the game itself, the current situation is not allowing everyone to travel and compete at the same level of risk, and I hope the situation will change soon and we will all be back to doing what we love and do best."

Djokovic will also compete in the Western & Southern Open, which is usually held in Cincinnati but will be played at Flushing Meadows from August 22-28.

The US Open gets under way at the same venue three days later. Both tournaments will be played without fans in attendance.