Aryna Sabalenka Follows Paula Badosa — Duo Pull Out of Montreal in Bold Personal Decision…Read More…
In a development that has sent ripples across the tennis world, Aryna Sabalenka, the reigning Australian Open champion and current World No. 3, announced her withdrawal from the upcoming National Bank Open in Montreal, citing personal considerations. Her decision comes barely 48 hours after Spain’s Paula Badosa confirmed her own withdrawal, adding a dramatic twist to the Montreal build-up and raising questions about the looming hardcourt season.
Sabalenka, known for her explosive power and fierce competitive spirit, broke the news in a candid statement shared via her social media platforms early Thursday morning. “It’s in my best interest at this time to step back and focus on my health and preparation for the rest of the season,” Sabalenka wrote. “I have great memories from Montreal, and this wasn’t an easy choice, but I believe it’s the right one for me now.”
The announcement took fans by surprise, especially considering Sabalenka’s typically iron-willed approach to competition. The Belarusian star has been a key figure in the WTA’s resurgence this year, having battled her way to the semifinals of both the French Open and Wimbledon, in addition to her Australian Open triumph. With the US Open fast approaching, Sabalenka’s withdrawal suggests a strategic move to recalibrate and avoid potential burnout.
On the other side, Paula Badosa’s absence from Montreal was somewhat anticipated, though still disappointing for her supporters. The Spaniard has faced a series of injuries over the past two seasons, with recurring back issues forcing her to sit out key tournaments. Badosa openly admitted earlier this week that she isn’t fully recovered to withstand the demands of high-level tennis, particularly on the hard courts.
“Montreal is a special place for me, but my body isn’t ready,” Badosa stated in her withdrawal message. “I have to prioritize my long-term health. I’ll be focusing on rehab and training with the hope of coming back stronger for the US Open.”
The twin withdrawals have inevitably sparked a wave of reactions among players, analysts, and fans alike. With both Sabalenka and Badosa out, the women’s field in Montreal looks significantly altered. Tournament organizers will now have to reshuffle draws, and opportunities could open for lower-ranked players seeking a breakthrough on the WTA circuit.
Former World No. 1 and tennis analyst Chris Evert weighed in on the withdrawals during a live segment on Tennis Channel. “These decisions highlight how demanding the tour calendar is, both physically and mentally,” Evert remarked. “For Sabalenka, this could be a smart move to preserve her energy for New York. And for Badosa, it’s another reminder of how crucial it is for players to listen to their bodies.”
The Montreal tournament, officially known as the National Bank Open, is one of the premier WTA 1000 events and a key stop ahead of the US Open. Scheduled to start next week, it traditionally marks the beginning of the North American hardcourt swing, drawing top talent from around the globe. Sabalenka’s absence now leaves Iga Swiatek, Elena Rybakina, and Coco Gauff among the headline favorites to lift the trophy.
For Sabalenka, the withdrawal doesn’t just signify skipping a tournament—it hints at a larger trend among top players being more selective with their schedules. Earlier this season, several male stars, including Novak Djokovic, opted out of high-profile events to preserve form and fitness. The women’s tour, facing an equally relentless calendar, appears to be witnessing a similar shift.
Meanwhile, Badosa’s situation underscores the fragility of elite athletes’ careers in a sport notorious for its grueling demands. Once heralded as a future Grand Slam contender, Badosa’s battles with injuries have left her fighting to stay within the top 50 rankings. Her candid acknowledgment of her physical limitations has drawn praise from mental health advocates who champion athletes making health-driven choices over external pressures.
Montreal’s tournament director, Valérie Tétreault, expressed understanding in her official statement. “We respect Aryna and Paula’s decisions and wish them the best in their recovery and preparations. While we’re naturally disappointed not to see them compete here, we look forward to welcoming them back in the future.”
With the main draw looming, the attention now shifts to who might seize the opportunity in a field suddenly open for surprises. Rising stars like Linda Nosková, Mirra Andreeva, and veteran campaigners like Petra Kvitová and Victoria Azarenka may find themselves with a clearer path to a deep run.
As for Sabalenka and Badosa, the hope among fans and insiders is that their decisions, though bold, will pay dividends as the season heads toward its climax. Both players have demonstrated flashes of brilliance this year, and a strategic pause now could set the stage for a strong finish at the US Open and beyond.
For now, Montreal prepares to open its doors to a field slightly changed but no less captivating — a reminder that in the high-stakes world of professional tennis, every decision, even a withdrawal, tells a story of resilience, strategy, and the pursuit of longevity at the top of the game.
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