Top Tennis Star Posts Emotional Message After Withdrawing From US Open Match Against Aryna Sabalenka

“I am sorry to announce that I have to withdraw from my quarterfinal match this evening due to a knee injury,” she said. “I tried my best to take the court today but during the warm-up I felt again my knee. After consultation with the tournament doctor, I decided not to risk aggravating the injury. I appreciate all the support at this tournament and apologize to the fans who were looking forward to the match. I had an amazing time here in New York and can’t wait to be back next year.”

On social media, the 25-year-old offered a more personal message, sharing the emotional weight of her setback. 

“It breaks my heart that I can’t step on court today at the US Open because of the injury I picked up in my last match,” she wrote. “This place is so special to me, exactly one year ago, I was in surgery, not even sure if I would ever return. Being back here, competing again, and enjoying such beautiful matches has meant more than words can say. Thankful for all the love and support.”

Vondrousova’s withdrawal was especially disappointing given her strong showing in New York. The Czech left-hander delivered one of her best runs of the season, defeating No. 32 seed McCartney Kessler in the second round before taking down two top-10 opponents, Jasmine Paolini and 2022 Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina.

Her victory over Rybakina in the fourth round was hailed as one of the standout performances of the tournament, with Vondrousova hitting just 15 unforced errors across three sets. 

For many, the quarterfinal against Sabalenka was seen as a must-watch showdown. In nine previous meetings, Vondrousova had managed to win four, raising hopes she could challenge the reigning US Open champion. 

Sabalenka, who now advances without stepping on court, shared a message of support for her opponent. 

“So sorry for Marketa after all she’s been through. She has been playing amazing tennis, and I know how badly this must hurt for her. Take care of yourself and I hope you can recover quickly,” she wrote.

The Belarusian now turns her attention to the semifinals, where she will face Pegula in a repeat of last year’s US Open final. The extra rest could prove an advantage, giving Sabalenka more time to prepare while Pegula arrives battle-tested after a straight-sets win over Barbora Krejcikova.

For now, Vondrousova’s focus will be on recovery. Having rebuilt her ranking over the past year, she had reestablished herself as a contender at the sport’s biggest stages.

As the US Open continues, her absence leaves a lingering “what if” hanging over the tournament, waiting until next year, when she hopes to return to New York in full health.