Why Did Paula Badosa Withdraw from the U.S. Open?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Paula Badosa has withdrawn from the U.S. Open due to a back injury.
- She was unable to compete since her early exit at Wimbledon.
- Jil Teichmann will replace her in the tournament.
- Badosa expressed her emotional disappointment over missing the event.
- Her best performance at the U.S. Open was reaching the quarterfinals in 2024.
New York, Aug 9 (NationPress) Former World No. 2 Paula Badosa has regrettably withdrawn from the upcoming U.S. Open due to a persistent back injury, putting an end to her aspirations of matching or surpassing last year's quarterfinal achievement at the Grand Slam event in New York.
The Spanish player, who is currently ranked No. 12, has not participated in any competitive matches since her first-round exit against Britain's Katie Boulter at Wimbledon on June 30. The U.S. Tennis Association confirmed on Friday that Jil Teichmann from Switzerland will take Badosa's place in the main draw. If further withdrawals occur before the tournament commences, Alizé Cornet from France will be next in line.
In a heartfelt message shared on social media, the 27-year-old conveyed her profound disappointment at missing this significant event of the year.
“It is with a heavy heart that I announce my withdrawal from this year’s U.S. Open,” Badosa stated. “This was an incredibly tough decision to make. After the remarkable journey I had in New York last year and the deep bond I felt with the city and its fans, stepping back from this tournament is very emotional for me.
The U.S. Open has always held a special place in my heart, and I have created some unforgettable memories there.”
Badosa’s remarkable quarterfinal run in 2024 was her best performance at the U.S. Open, establishing her as one of the most formidable players on the WTA Tour. Earlier this year, she achieved a career milestone by reaching the semifinals at the Australian Open, marking her deepest Grand Slam progression.
Her ascent to World No. 2 in the spring of 2022 heralded her emergence as a major contender in women's tennis. However, ongoing injuries over the past two seasons have hindered her momentum, leading to several withdrawals from key tournaments.
The U.S. Open, set to begin on August 24 and culminating with the women's final on September 6, will proceed without one of its most beloved athletes.