Defending champion Aryna Sabalenka advanced to the semifinals of the US Open 2025 in an unexpected twist after her scheduled quarterfinal opponent, Marketa Vondrousova, was forced to withdraw due to a knee injury.
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What Happened
The highly anticipated quarterfinal clash between Sabalenka and 2023 Wimbledon champion Marketa Vondrousova was canceled at the last moment. During her warm-up, Vondrousova reported knee discomfort and, after consulting medical staff, made the difficult decision to withdraw to avoid worsening the injury.
This rare occurrence marked the first time since 1988 that a woman has given a walkover in or beyond the US Open quarterfinals.
Who Is Aryna Sabalenka?
Aryna Sabalenka, 25, is one of the most dominant players on the WTA Tour. Known for her powerful serves and aggressive baseline play, she has consistently been among the top contenders in women’s tennis. Her progression to the semifinals underlines her continued success, with many expecting her to remain a strong favorite to defend her title.
Background and Timeline
Vondrousova had reached the quarterfinals after an impressive victory over 2022 Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina. However, her knee injury forced her to step aside.
In her statement, Vondrousova expressed disappointment, saying:
“I’ve appreciated all the support at this tournament, and I apologize to the fans who were ready for the match.”
With Vondrousova’s withdrawal, Sabalenka advanced directly into the semifinals without playing. The USTA rescheduled the session to highlight the men’s quarterfinal between Novak Djokovic and Taylor Fritz, originally set to follow the women’s match.
Public and Social Media Reaction
Fans reacted with mixed emotions—disappointed that the clash between Sabalenka and Vondrousova never happened, but sympathetic to Vondrousova’s situation. Social media was filled with messages wishing her a speedy recovery, while others celebrated Sabalenka’s progression as part of her continued dominance at the majors.
Official Statement and What Happens Next
Sabalenka now turns her focus to a semifinal matchup against American Jessica Pegula, scheduled for Thursday. This will be a rematch of last year’s US Open final, where Sabalenka won in straight sets to capture her first Grand Slam title.
Pegula has been in excellent form, defeating two-time major champion Barbora Krejcikova in her quarterfinal without dropping a set. She also became the first American since Serena Williams (2011–2014) to reach back-to-back Grand Slam semifinals without losing a set.
Meanwhile, the remaining women’s quarterfinals feature:
- No. 2 Iga Swiatek vs. No. 8 Amanda Anisimova
- No. 11 Karolina Muchova vs. No. 23 Naomi Osaka, marking Osaka’s return to a Grand Slam quarterfinal after a long absence.
Conclusion
Aryna Sabalenka’s path to the US Open semifinals may have taken an unusual turn, but her focus remains sharp as she prepares for a tough clash with Jessica Pegula. With Naomi Osaka’s return and Iga Swiatek still in the draw, the women’s semifinals promise high-stakes drama as the tournament heads toward its conclusion.