Daijiworld Media Network- New York  

New York, Sep 3: World no 1 Aryna Sabalenka advanced to the semifinals of the US open on Wednesday without playing her quarterfinal match, as s wimbledon 2023 champion Marketa Vondrousova pulled out citing a knee injury. 

Sabalenka will now face American Jessica Pegula in the semifinals, setting up a rematch of last year’s final. 

In a statement released through the US open website, Vondrousova said, “I am sorry to announce that I have to withdraw from my quarterfinal match this evening due to a knee injury. I tried my best to take the court today, but during the warm-up, I felt pain in my knee, and after consultation with the tournament doctor, I decided not to risk aggravating the injury. I appreciate all the support for this tournament and apologise to the fans. I had an amazing time here in NY and can’t wait to be back next year.” 

Sabalenka expressed sympathy for her opponent, posting on Instagram: “So sorry for Marketa after all she’s been through. She has been playing amazing tennis, and I know how badly this must hurt for her. Take care of yourself, and I hope you can recover quickly.” 

Pegula entered the semifinals with a convincing 6-3, 6-3 victory over barbora Krejcikova on Tuesday. This is only the second time in her career that she has reached the final four of a Grand Slam. However, her head-to-head record against Sabalenka stands at just two wins in nine meetings. 

Sabalenka had earlier stormed into the quarterfinals with a straight-sets win over Cristina Bucsa (6-1, 6-4) and assured herself of retaining the World No 1 ranking after the tournament. She also showcased her dominance in earlier rounds, defeating Canada’s Leylah Fernandez 6-3, 7-6(2) in a high-intensity third-round clash.