The camera caught it all: Aryna Sabalenka’s face dropping in disbelief as she processed the news. Her highly anticipated US Open quarterfinal, the match tennis fans had circled on their calendars, was suddenly off.
Markéta Vondroušová, her scheduled opponent, had withdrawn just hours before they were set to battle on Arthur Ashe Stadium. The knee injury that ended the Czech player’s tournament left Sabalenka stunned in a Flushing Meadows hallway, her reaction captured for the world to see.
What Happened to Markéta Vondroušová Before Her Quarterfinal Against Aryna Sabalenka?
The matchup had been one of the most anticipated of the tournament, pitting defending champion Sabalenka against the 2023 Wimbledon winner. Vondroušová had been enjoying an impressive run in New York, defeating top-10 opponents Jasmine Paolini and Elena Rybakina to reach the quarterfinals for the second time in New York.
However, her campaign came to a tearful halt during a practice session when she injured her knee. Despite medical attention and an attempt to warm up, the Czech player ultimately could not continue.
ESPN posted a video clip of the incident and Sabalenka’s reaction on social media, showing the Belarusian’s shock as a member of her team or tournament staff delivered the news in the locker room hallway.
Breaking: Marketa Vondrousova has withdrawn from the US Open.
Aryna Sabalenka will face Jessica Pegula in the semifinal, a rematch of their 2024 US Open Final match. pic.twitter.com/SRDh3ili7o
— ESPN (@espn) September 2, 2025
The withdrawal decision came after considerable deliberation. Vondroušová explained her choice in a statement released shortly after pulling out of the match. “I am sorry to announce that I have to withdraw from my quarterfinal match this evening due to a knee injury,” she said.
“I tried my best to take the court today but during the warm-up I felt again my knee and after consultation with the tournament doctor decided not to risk aggravating the injury.
“I appreciate all the support this tournament and apologize to the fans who were looking forward to the match. I had an amazing time here in NY and can’t wait to be back next year.”
Marketa Vondrousova statement on her withdrawal, via the #USOpen:
“I am sorry to announce that I have to withdraw from my quarterfinal match this evening due to a knee injury. I tried my best to take the court today but during the warm-up I felt again my knee and after…
— Ben Rothenberg (@BenRothenberg) September 2, 2025
The emotional weight of the decision became even clearer in her Instagram post. She later elaborated on the platform, writing that it “breaks my heart” to miss the contest, especially considering her journey back to tennis following surgery just one year ago.
READ MORE: Aryna Sabalenka’s US Open Quarterfinal Canceled As Shocking Update Emerges
How Does This Withdrawal Impact Sabalenka’s US Open Path?
For Sabalenka, the walkover guaranteed her a place in the semifinals, though the circumstances were far from ideal. She will now face last year’s runner-up Jessica Pegula in what promises to be a compelling semifinal matchup. This will be their 10th meeting on the WTA Tour, with the Belarusian holding a dominant 7-2 head-to-head record.
The automatic advancement keeps Sabalenka fresh for the semifinal, avoiding the physical toll of a potentially grueling quarterfinal battle. However, it also means she enters her next match without the competitive rhythm that comes from tournament play at this crucial stage.
