Sabalenka Advances to US Open Semifinals After Vondrousova Withdraws with Injury

Marketa Vondrousova, the 2023 Wimbledon champion, withdrew from her 2025 US Open quarterfinal match against world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka due to a knee injury sustained during practice, marking the first walkover in the women's quarterfinals or later since 1988. Vondrousova, who has struggled with multiple injuries including wrist and shoulder surgeries, was visibly upset as she left the court, forcing a last-minute change to the US Open schedule. Sabalenka advanced to the semifinals without playing and will face Jessica Pegula in a rematch of the 2024 final, a match Sabalenka won in straight sets. Despite the setback, Vondrousova had an impressive tournament run, including victories over top 10 players Jasmine Paolini and Elena Rybakina, and had recently won the Berlin Open, her first title since Wimbledon 2023. Sabalenka expressed sympathy on social media, acknowledging Vondrousova's resilience and the difficulty of her withdrawal. Vondrousova's withdrawal underscores ongoing concerns about her ability to overcome recurring injuries and continue competing at the highest level.