World number-2 Paula Badosa withdraws from 'US Open' due to back injury

Former world number 2 Paula Badosa has withdrawn from the upcoming 'US Open' due to a recurring back injury, ending her hopes of matching or surpassing her quarter-final performance last year at the New York Grand Slam. The Spanish player, now ranked 12th, hasn't played since her first-round loss to Britain's Katie Boulter at Wimbledon on June 30. The US Tennis Association announced that Switzerland's Jil Teichmann will take Badosa's spot in the main draw. Should another player withdraw before the tournament starts, France's Alize Cornet will be next in line.

In an emotional social media post, the 27-year-old expressed her disappointment at missing the year's final major. Badosa stated, "With a heavy heart, I am announcing my withdrawal from this year's US Open. This decision was extremely difficult to make. After last year's great performance in New York and my deep connection with the city and fans, withdrawing is very emotional. The 'US Open' has always meant a lot to me, and I have made some of my most special memories there."

Badosa, who reached the quarterfinals in 2024, had her best US Open showing yet, establishing herself as a dangerous player on the WTA Tour. Earlier this season, she achieved her career's most memorable moment by reaching the semifinals of the Australian Open, her best Grand Slam performance. 

Becoming world number two in spring 2022 marked her rise as a major contender in women's tennis. However, recurring injuries over the last two seasons have hampered her rhythm, forcing her to withdraw from several key tournaments.

With the US Open starting on August 24 and concluding with the women's final on September 6, the tournament will now be missing one of its most beloved players.