Aryna Sabalenka advanced to the semifinals of the US Open on Tuesday without hitting a single ball, after her scheduled opponent Markéta Vondroušová was forced to withdraw due to injury. 

The announcement surprised both fans and tournament organizers, as the match was expected to be one of the highlights of the day at Flushing Meadows. Sabalenka, the defending champion and current world number two, expressed regret over the situation, acknowledging Vondroušová’s effort and wishing her a speedy recovery.

At the same time, she admitted that this unexpected qualification would allow her to reach the decisive stage of the tournament with more energy, something that could make a significant difference in such a demanding schedule.

Vondroušová’s withdrawal ends what had been a promising run, leaving the impression that the tournament is losing a talented competitor just as the battles were set to intensify. For Sabalenka, however, the situation becomes a golden opportunity to reaffirm her status as the favorite, as defending the title in New York now depends on staying focused and taking full advantage of the physical edge provided by this unexpected break.

With this automatic passage, the Belarusian joins the other semifinalists and prepares to face a challenge that could bring her one step closer to once again lifting the trophy at Arthur Ashe Stadium.