New York — Defending champion Aryna Sabalenka has advanced to the semifinals of the US Open without hitting a ball after her quarterfinal opponent, Marketa Vondroušová, pulled out with a knee injury.
Tournament officials confirmed that Vondroušová, the 2023 Wimbledon champion, hurt her knee during a practice session and was unable to compete. She attempted a warm-up but, after consulting doctors, withdrew to avoid further damage.
In a statement, Vondroušová said she was “heartbroken” to leave the tournament at this stage but thanked fans for their support, promising to return stronger next season.
The withdrawal hands Sabalenka a rare walkover into the semifinals, making her only the third woman in the Open Era to advance to a Grand Slam semifinal this way. She will now face American Jessica Pegula in a high-stakes rematch of last year’s final.
Sabalenka expressed sympathy for her rival, writing on social media: “So sorry for Marketa, she’s been playing great tennis. I know how hard this must be for her.”
For Vondroušová, the setback is another blow in a career often interrupted by injuries, while for Sabalenka, it opens a smoother path as she continues her bid to defend her title in New York.
