Ons Jabeur, the previous runner-up, has decided not to participate in the US Open this year. The stalwart from Tunisia has withdrawn due to a shoulder injury. The news was released shortly after the Thursday draw at Flushing Meadows, where Elise Mertens, the highest-ranked unseeded player, took Jabeur’s place.
Jabeur has spent most of the season dealing with a knee injury, but she recently had shoulder trouble keeping her from competing in the Citi Open in Washington. She performed in Toronto but had to cancel her Cincinnati trip once more.
She wrote on her Instagram: “I am truly sad to announce that my shoulder won’t recover in time for the US Open. I feel I need to give 100 % and today it’s not possible yet. Life has ups and downs, but sometimes in the very negative moments, we all need to find the positive in it. This year has been very tough for me, but I know somewhere the light is there. I keep smiling like I always do because I am grateful for my life, my family, my sponsors and the fans that have always supported me. I am always grateful for the unconditional support YOU all bring to me.”
She added: “If you are reading this post and wanting to wish me a speedy recovery, I truly appreciate it and cherish it, And if you are here to question my choices and my team, please find a little kindness in your heart because you don’t know what I have been going through for all these years. I promise once I get my strength back I will come back stronger.”
Ons Jabeur in 2024
Currently ranked no.17, Jabeur played her last match on the 7th of August when she was defeated by world no.85 Naomi Osaka 6-3 6-1 in the 1st round in Toronto (draw).
Until now, during this year Jabeur has managed to achieve an overall 16-14 win-loss record.