In a surprising yet understandable turn of events, World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka has officially withdrawn from the upcoming Canadian Open in Montreal, scheduled to take place from July 26 to August 7. The Belarusian powerhouse cited fatigue following a grueling stretch of matches at Wimbledon and the Berlin Open. Adding to the blow for tennis enthusiasts, Spanish player Paula Badosa also pulled out due to a lingering back injury, leaving fans with a noticeably thinner star lineup for one of North America's most prestigious hardcourt events.
A Demanding Summer Stretch
Sabalenka's withdrawal doesn't come out of nowhere. The past month has been particularly demanding for the 26-year-old, who made a deep run at Wimbledon, showcasing her usual brand of explosive power and mental grit. That performance followed a packed schedule that included a high-intensity tournament in Berlin, part of the preparation for the grass-court Grand Slam.
While many fans were eager to see the reigning world number one in action on Canadian soil, Sabalenka’s decision highlights the physical and mental toll the modern tennis calendar places on its top athletes. With the U.S. Open looming just weeks away, it seems Sabalenka has chosen recovery and long-term performance over another immediate title chase.
For athletes at her level, every match is high stakes, and playing through fatigue can risk injury or poor form at crucial moments. Given the grind of back-to-back tournaments and travel, her choice, though disappointing for fans, is a wise one for sustaining a long, successful season.
Montreal Misses a Star
The Montreal leg of the Canadian Open, officially known as the National Bank Open, is traditionally a key stop on the road to the U.S. Open. Held in alternate years between Montreal and Toronto for the women and men respectively, the tournament draws top talent and massive local support. This year was no different, with tickets selling fast and fans hoping to catch a glimpse of stars like Sabalenka, Coco Gauff, Iga Świątek, and others.
Sabalenka's presence would have added a strong dose of elite drama to the tournament, especially considering her current status as the top-ranked player in the world. Her aggressive baseline style, fiery on-court demeanor, and recent Grand Slam success have made her one of the sport's biggest attractions. For fans in Montreal, especially those who rarely get to see world-class tennis up close, this is a notable loss.
Paula Badosa's Injury Troubles Continue
Also missing from the Montreal Open will be Paula Badosa, the former World No. 2 who has been struggling with recurring back issues. The Spaniard’s career has been plagued by injury setbacks, and her withdrawal from yet another tournament adds to the growing concern about her long-term health. Badosa, known for her fluid movement and all-court style, has long been seen as a potential Grand Slam contender, but her inability to maintain consistent fitness has slowed that trajectory.
Her absence removes a crowd favorite and one of the more charismatic players on tour. It also reduces the tournament’s depth, with fewer marquee matchups expected in the early rounds.
Opportunity for Others
While the absence of two stars will be felt, it also opens the door for emerging players and fan favorites to seize the spotlight. Expect local talents and lower-seeded players to embrace the moment and push for career-defining wins in Montreal. Rising stars like Leylah Fernandez may find added motivation to deliver strong performances in front of a home crowd.
Fans may not get to see Sabalenka or Badosa this time, but the unpredictable nature of the draw might produce some hidden gems and thrilling matches. In tennis, where upsets are part of the charm, this change in lineup could lead to fresh storylines and new champions.
Looking Ahead
While Sabalenka and Badosa will be missed in Montreal, their withdrawals serve as a reminder of the human element behind elite competition. Rest, recovery, and self-care are just as vital as power serves and cross-court winners. For Sabalenka, the focus now shifts to regaining energy for the hardcourt season’s final push. And for Montreal, the show must go on—albeit with a few less stars in the sky.
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