Queens, NY — Markéta Vondroušová’s promising run at the U.S. Open came to an abrupt and heartbreaking end Tuesday after the Czech star withdrew due to injury just hours before her highly anticipated quarterfinal match against world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka.
During an afternoon practice session, the 26-year-old clutched her side in visible pain after hitting a forehand. She doubled over, limped to the sideline, and was reportedly in tears as her team rushed to help. ESPN confirmed the injury forced her immediate withdrawal from the tournament.
Sabalenka, who now advances to the semifinals by walkover, expressed sympathy for her opponent on Instagram.
“So sorry for Markéta after all she’s been through,” Sabalenka wrote. “She’s been playing amazing tennis, and I know how painful this must be. Wishing her a speedy recovery.”
Vondroušová had been in strong form throughout the tournament, upsetting several seeded players along the way. Her U.S. Open campaign included wins over No. 32 McCartney Kessler, No. 7 Jasmine Paolini, and No. 9 Elena Rybakina — showcasing the same elite level that once took her to the top 10 in the world rankings.
A former junior World No. 1 and Wimbledon champion, Vondroušová has endured a career marred by injuries, making her resurgence in New York all the more compelling — and her withdrawal all the more heartbreaking.
With Vondroušová out, Sabalenka turns her focus to Thursday’s semifinal clash against American Jessica Pegula in a rematch of the 2024 U.S. Open final.
