Ons Jabeur sends defiant message despite ‘truly sad’ US Open announcement
Ons Jabeur has vowed to “come back stronger” despite her “truly sad” US Open withdrawal.
The former world No 2, who reached the final of the tournament back in 2022, said it was “not possible” for her to give 100% at Flushing Meadows, with action beginning in just three days.
2024 has been a difficult season for the Tunisian, who has fallen down to 17th in the WTA Rankings amid battles with form and injury.
The three-time Slam finalist did not win a match for two months during the spring and, though there were positive signs during the clay swing, a round three exit at Wimbledon saw her fall out of the top 10.
Jabeur chose to skip the Olympic Games due to fitness concerns though ultimately withdrew from the Washington Open, and was beaten heavily by Naomi Osaka at the Canadian Open.
She then pulled out of the Cincinnati Open last week and confirmed on Thursday night she would also not play in New York.
She wrote: “Dear All, 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.
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“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.
“Always grateful for the unconditional support YOU all bring to me.”
Jabeur also sent a message to critics of her form and coaching team, insisting she will bounce back once she recovers from her injury.
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.”
Jabeur reached round four of the US Open a year ago and was set to face Veronika Kudermetova in round one.
Her withdrawal means that Elise Mertens has been promoted to 33rd seed and will now open her campaign against Kudermetova.
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