If you were hoping to see Aryna Sabalenka back in action this month, you’ll have to wait a bit longer.
Sabalenka, the No. 1 player in the world, captured her fourth Grand Slam title earlier this month at the US Open. She defeated Amanda Anisimova in the final 6-3, 7-5 (3) to reclaim her status as the queen of the hard courts. It was an emotional match for Sabalenka, who suffered heartbreaking losses in the finals for the Australian Open and French Open.
“I knew that [because of] the hard work we put in, like, I deserved to have a Grand Slam title this season,” Sabalenka said. “So, yeah, when I fell, it was like truly emotions because it means a lot to defend this title and to bring such great tennis on court. And to bring the fight and be able to handle my emotions the way I did in this final, it means a lot. I’m super proud right now of myself.”
Less than two weeks after winning her second career US Open title, Sabalenka revealed that she was battling an injury in New York. Apparently, it was serious enough to force her to withdraw from this month’s upcoming tournament in Beijing.
“Hello everyone, due to an injury sustained during the US Open and the ongoing recovery process, I regretfully announce that I will withdraw from this year’s China Open,” Sabalenka said. “I will focus on my recovery and strive to return to 100% condition as soon as possible. I can’t wait to see my fans in China! I look forward to returning to Beijing next year and wish you all the best for your tournament.”
Sabalenka’s No. 1 ranking could be at risk.
As of this Wednesday, Sabalenka holds a 3,292 point lead over Iga Swiatek for the No. 1 spot in the world.
Sabalenka will drop 215 ranking points since she won’t be defending her previous result at the China Open. Swiatek, on the other hand, could cut into the gap by winning her next two tournaments in Seoul and Beijing.
There’s no question Swiatek has been playing great tennis of late. She won Wimbledon in July and defeated a handful of seeded opponents en route to winning the Cincinnati Masters in August.
We’ll see if Swiatek can make a late surge and reclaim the throne as the No. 1 player in the world.
This story was originally reported by The Spun on Sep 17, 2025, where it first appeared in the Newssection. Add The Spun as a Preferred Source by clicking here.