Aryna Sabalenka Withdraws From National Bank Open to Focus on U.S. Open Title Defense

July 17, 2025: Top-ranked tennis star Aryna Sabalenka has officially withdrawn from the upcoming National Bank Open in Montreal, choosing instead to prioritize rest ahead of her U.S. Open title defense.

“I’m looking forward to kicking off the North American hard-court swing, but to give myself the best chance for success this season, I’ve decided it’s in my best interest to skip Montreal,” Sabalenka said in a statement released by the tournament on Wednesday.

The Belarusian player recently reached the semifinals at Wimbledon, where she was defeated by Amanda Anisimova. Rather than rushing back into competition, Sabalenka is opting for a more strategic approach to her schedule, possibly returning at the Cincinnati Open in early August. The U.S. Open, where she claimed her maiden title in 2024, begins on August 24.

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In addition to Sabalenka’s withdrawal, the tournament announced that 10th-ranked Paula Badosa has also pulled out due to injury. Their spots in the main draw will be filled by Caty McNally and Moyuka Uchijima.

The National Bank Open is set to begin on July 27 in Montreal.