US Open star issues heartbreaking statement after retiring in tears

Marketa Vondrousova wrote a heartbreaking update on social media after she was forced to withdraw from the US Open two hours before her match. The 2023 Wimbledon champion was due to face Aryna Sabalenka in the quarter-finals, but had to pull out after stopping her practice session.

Sky Sports Tennis claimed that the Czech star left the practice court in tears and was consoled by her team. She was later seen with heavy strapping on her left leg as she walked through the players' area.

Vondrousova took to Instagram to explain her absence from the quarter-finals, writing: "It breaks my heart that I can't step on court today at the US Open because of the injury I picked up in my last match.

"This place is so special to me - exactly one year ago I was in surgery, not even sure if I would ever return. Being back here, competing again and enjoying such beautiful matches has meant more than words can say. Thankful for all the love and support."

She issued an additional statement which read: "I tried my best to take to the court today but, after consultation with the tournament doctor, I decided not to risk aggravating the injury.

"I appreciate all the support and apologise to the fans who were looking forward to the match."

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The unseeded Vondrousova has had a career plagued by injuries, having undergone hand and shoulder surgeries in recent years.

Her latest setback saw Sabalenka advance to the semi-finals without playing. She next faces Jessica Pegula in a repeat of last year's final at Flushing Meadows.

"So sorry for Marketa after all she's been through," Sabalenka wrote on social media. "She has been playing amazing tennis and I know how badly this must hurt for her. Take care of yourself and I hope you can recover quickly. Love Aryna."

Vondrousova had been in impressive form and had dropped only one set throughout the Grand Slam, in her 6-4 5-7 6-2 win over Elena Rybakina in the previous round, but threw the tournament into chaos with her withdrawal.

Fans who had bought tickets to see the Tuesday night session on Arthur Ashe only had one match to watch, with officials opting against moving Venus Williams' women's doubles tie from the secondary Louis Armstrong Court to the main arena.

That sole match saw Novak Djokovic defeat home favourite Taylor Fritz in four sets, while Williams' fairytale comeback with Leylah Fernandez ended in a brutal 6-1 6-2 defeat to Taylor Townsend and Katerina Siniakova.