World No. 3 Aryna Sabalenka has withdrawn from Wimbledon due to a shoulder injury, as announced by the Grand Slam organizers on Monday. Sabalenka will be replaced by lucky loser Erika Andreeva, who will face Emina Bektas in the first round.
“Heartbroken to have to tell you all that I won’t be able to play The Championships this year. I tried everything to get myself ready but unfortunately my shoulder is not cooperating. This tournament means so much to me and I promise I’ll be back stronger than ever next year,” Sabalenka shared in a post on X.
Just over a week ago, Sabalenka withdrew from her Berlin quarterfinal match against Anna Kalinskaya due to the same shoulder ailment. She revealed on Saturday that her teres major muscle was injured and that she was still “not 100 percent fit.” The Australian Open winner mentioned that she could not serve without experiencing pain.
On Monday morning, Sabalenka practiced at Wimbledon but ultimately decided to withdraw. This marks the first Grand Slam competition she has missed due to an injury in her career. Sabalenka has previously reached the semifinals in her last two appearances at the All England Club.
Earlier in the day, No. 22 seed Ekaterina Alexandrova also withdrew from the competition, citing illness. She was set to face Emma Raducanu on Centre Court; the Briton will now play lucky loser Renata Zarazua instead.
Sabalenka’s withdrawal is a significant setback for the tournament, and her absence will surely be felt. Fans and fellow players alike are hoping for her swift recovery and return to the court next year.
