Former US Open champion Marin Cilic and 2022 runner-up Casper Ruud have both withdrawn from this year’s tournament due to injuries, tournament organizers confirmed on Sunday.

Cilic, who claimed his sole Grand Slam title at Flushing Meadows 12 years ago, will be replaced in the draw by lucky loser Otto Virtanen. Virtanen, who had previously retired during a third-round qualifying match against Grigor Dimitrov because of injury, is set to face 23rd seed Andrey Rublev in the first round. Details regarding the nature of the 37-year-old Croatian’s injury were not disclosed by officials. Cilic’s withdrawal adds to a growing list of notable absences this year, which includes players such as Jannik Sinner, Jack Draper, Joao Fonseca, and Holger Rune.

Ruud, who finished as runner-up to Carlos Alcaraz at the US Open four years ago, pulled out earlier and will be replaced by lucky loser Arthur Gea. The French qualifier will meet Juan Manuel Cerundolo in the opening round. The 27-year-old Norwegian had retired during the second set of his Cincinnati Open match against Christopher O’Connell earlier this month due to a persistent back injury, which ultimately forced his decision to withdraw from the US Open. Ruud stated on social media that his recovery had not progressed as quickly as anticipated and emphasized the need to prioritize his long-term health.

“Unfortunately, my back hasn’t healed as quickly as we had hoped,” Ruud said. “We’ve been optimistic that I would recover in time, but my team and I have decided that we need to think long term and give my body the time it needs. I’m very sad to announce that I have to withdraw from this year’s US Open singles event.” He added that while missing a Grand Slam is difficult, focusing on proper recovery was the right decision.

Prior to his withdrawal, Ruud participated in the recently introduced mixed doubles event at the US Open, partnering with Diana Shnaider. The pair were eliminated in the quarterfinals by the team of Andrey Rublev and Mirra Andreeva.

The withdrawals of these high-profile players leave the men’s singles draw at Flushing Meadows more open as the tournament progresses into its final stages. Organizers continue to monitor the field as they prepare for the top seeds and remaining contenders to compete for the title.