Aryna Sabalenka Withdraws from Wimbledon Due to Shoulder Injury

Wimbledon contender Aryna Sabalenka has withdrawn from this year’s tournament due to a shoulder injury, a setback announced on Monday, July 1 2024 ahead of her scheduled first-round match.

The two-time Australian Open champion, seeded third at Wimbledon, was set to face Emina Bektas from the United States on Day 1 of the grass-court Grand Slam.

In a heartfelt message on social media, Sabalenka expressed her disappointment: “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.”

Despite pushing herself in practice, Sabalenka’s team advised against playing to avoid exacerbating the injury. She assured her fans of her determination to return stronger next year, emphasizing the tournament’s significance to her.

Sabalenka’s absence reshuffled the draw, with Erika Andreeva stepping in after a qualifying loss last week. Andreeva advanced to the second round with a hard-fought victory over Bektas.

Sabalenka, a semifinalist in her last two Wimbledon appearances, had recently struggled with shoulder pain, forcing her to retire during a match at the Berlin Ladies Open.

Reflecting on her injury, Sabalenka described it as frustrating, particularly affecting her serving ability despite being able to practice groundstrokes.

Despite intensive rehabilitation efforts, including MRI scans and treatments, she faced the tough decision to withdraw from Wimbledon.

The 26-year-old Belarusian, briefly ranked No. 1 in the WTA rankings last season, is renowned for her powerful game, particularly effective on fast surfaces like Wimbledon’s grass and the Australian Open’s hard courts.

Sabalenka’s withdrawal adds to the list of players who have opted out of Wimbledon just as the tournament commences, marking a disappointing turn for one of the sport’s rising stars.

As Sabalenka focuses on recovery, fans eagerly anticipate her return to competitive tennis, hopeful for her continued success on the international stage.