Full Breakdown
Marketa Vondrousova Withdraws from US Open Quarterfinals, Aryna Sabalenka Advances
9/3/2025, 12:26:21 PM
Injury Forces Vondrousova's Withdrawal
Marketa Vondrousova, the 2023 Wimbledon champion, withdrew from her scheduled quarterfinal match against Aryna Sabalenka at the 2025 US Open due to a knee injury. The announcement came approximately two hours before the match was set to begin at Arthur Ashe Stadium. Vondrousova, who entered the tournament ranked 60th and unseeded, had previously achieved significant victories over top-10 players Jasmine Paolini and Elena Rybakina to reach this stage.
In a statement, Vondrousova expressed her disappointment, stating, “I tried my best to take the court today, but during the warm-up, I felt again my knee, and after consultation with the tournament doctor decided not to risk aggravating the injury.” She acknowledged the support she received during the tournament and apologized to fans who were looking forward to the match.
Sabalenka's Reaction and Upcoming Match
Defending champion Aryna Sabalenka advanced to the semifinals without hitting a ball, marking the first time she has progressed in a major tournament via walkover. Following the news of Vondrousova's withdrawal, Sabalenka took to social media to express her sympathy, saying, “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.” Sabalenka will now face No. 4 seed Jessica Pegula in a rematch of last year's final, which she won in straight sets.
Background on Vondrousova's Injury History
Vondrousova's career has been marred by injuries, including multiple surgeries on her wrist and shoulder in recent years. She missed the 2024 US Open due to shoulder surgery and had only recently returned to competitive play. Her withdrawal from the US Open continues a frustrating pattern of health setbacks, as she had been performing well in the tournament before the injury struck during a practice session.
Observers noted that Vondrousova appeared to be in distress during practice, where she was seen limping and later left the court in tears. This incident has drawn attention to the challenges she has faced in her career, as she has struggled to maintain consistent participation due to injuries.
Implications for the Tournament
Vondrousova's withdrawal is significant not only for her but also for the tournament's dynamics. The US Open has not seen a woman withdraw from a quarterfinal or later due to injury since 1988. The USTA confirmed that Vondrousova's situation has necessitated a change in the evening's schedule, allowing the men's quarterfinal match between Novak Djokovic and Taylor Fritz to proceed without delay.
As the tournament progresses, the focus now shifts to Sabalenka and Pegula's upcoming semifinal clash, which promises to be a highly anticipated rematch. Vondrousova's future in the tournament circuit remains uncertain as she prioritizes recovery from her injury.
