In a gut-wrenching blow to her fans and the tournament, world-renowned Tunisian tennis star Ons Jabeur has withdrawn from the US Open due to a lingering shoulder injury. The 2022 finalist, who was considered a top contender for the title this year, made the emotional decision after struggling with the injury throughout her matches.
Jabeur, known for her crafty playing style and unmatched flair, had been battling shoulder pain since the start of the tournament. Despite her best efforts to push through, the discomfort became too much, and her team advised her to step away from the competition to prevent further damage.
In a statement released through her social media channels, Jabeur expressed her devastation over having to leave the tournament prematurely: “It breaks my heart to withdraw, but my shoulder isn’t ready to endure the demands of these high-level matches. I’m incredibly sorry to all my fans and supporters, but I’ll be back stronger.”
The 29-year-old had high hopes for a deep run in New York, after an impressive season that saw her reach the Wimbledon final just months earlier. With her unique combination of power, finesse, and strategic play, Jabeur was widely considered a fan favorite and a real contender for the title.
Fans and fellow players immediately flooded social media with messages of support, praising her for her courage in prioritizing her health. One of her top competitors posted, “Ons is a true warrior on and off the court. Wishing her a speedy recovery—New York will miss her.”
The injury comes at an especially tough time for Jabeur, who had been building momentum in her career as a trailblazer for Arab and African women in sports. Her influence extends far beyond the tennis court, making her withdrawal even more painful for the global tennis community.
Though her US Open journey has come to an abrupt end, Jabeur’s determination to return stronger is never in doubt. Fans eagerly await the day she’ll be back on the court, inspiring millions once again.