Aryna Sabalenka Qualifies For US Open Semifinals After Opponent Withdraws

Last Updated:September 03, 2025, 08:12 IST

World number one Aryna Sabalenka will face fourth-seeded American Jessica Pegula.

Aryna Sabalenka defeated Cristina Bucsa in the fourth round. (AP Photo)

Reigning women’s US Open champion Aryna Sabalenka advanced to the semifinals on Tuesday after Marketa Vondrousova withdrew from their quarterfinal match due to a knee injury.

“I am sorry to announce that I have to withdraw from my quarterfinal match this evening due to a knee injury," Vondrousova stated. “I tried my best to take the court today, but during the warm-up, I felt my knee again and, after consulting with the tournament doctor, decided not to risk aggravating the injury."

World number one Sabalenka will face fourth-seeded American Jessica Pegula in the semifinals on Thursday, a repeat of last year’s final won by the Belarusian.

“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 expressed on social media.

The 26-year-old Vondrousova had reached her second US Open quarterfinal after defeating two top-10 players in New York. She overcame seventh seed Jasmine Paolini in the third round and defeated Elena Rybakina in the last 16 in a clash of former Wimbledon champions.

However, injury struck Vondrousova once again. Footage from Tuesday’s practice session aired by ESPN showed Vondrousova doubled over and being consoled by her coaching team.

Vondrousova missed last year’s US Open due to shoulder surgery right before the tournament. She also skipped the Australian Open in January. The Czech made a brief return in February but then didn’t play again for three months before the French Open.

With AFP Inputs

Feroz Khan

Feroz Khan has been covering sports for over 12 years now and is currently working with Network18 as Principal Correspondent. He embarked on his journey in 2011 and has since acquired vast experience in digital...Read More

Feroz Khan has been covering sports for over 12 years now and is currently working with Network18 as Principal Correspondent. He embarked on his journey in 2011 and has since acquired vast experience in digital...

Read More

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New York, United States of America (USA)

First Published:

September 03, 2025, 08:12 IST

News sports Aryna Sabalenka Qualifies For US Open Semifinals After Opponent Withdraws

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