Twist to the 'GOAT' race as Nadal opts to skip U.S. Open

FILE PHOTO: Tennis - ATP 500 - Mexican Open - Princess Acapulco Stadium, Acapulco, Mexico - February 29, 2020 Spain's Rafael Nadal in action during his final match against Taylor Fritz of the U.S. REUTERS/Carlos Perez Gallardo

(Reuters) - Rafa Nadal's decision to skip the U.S. Open because of health concerns has added another twist to the intriguing three-way battle for the most career men's Grand Slam titles and, in many eyes, the title of Greatest Of All Time (GOAT).

Had the 34-year-old Spaniard managed to retain the title he won in a five-set thriller against Daniil Medvedev last year, he would have joined Roger Federer at the top of the list with 20 titles.