The US Open 2026 confirms two withdrawals in the women's draw

The women's draw of the US Open 2026 is starting to undergo changes before its celebration. Ajla Tomljanovic and Sonay Kartal have confirmed their respective withdrawals from the last Grand Slam of the season, leaving out two players with very different reasons to mark the New York tournament on their calendars. The Australian's withdrawal will allow Ella Seidel to directly enter the main draw.

Tomljanovic has had a particularly significant relationship with Flushing Meadows. Her highlight there came in 2022, when she ousted Serena Williams in the third round, a match that seemed destined to be the last for the legendary American. The Australian went on to reach the quarterfinals, matching her best result in a Grand Slam at that time.

Kartal's struggles with injuries persist

Particularly concerning is the case of Sonay Kartal. The British player has been hampered by physical issues for months and had already to forego the entire grass court season, including Wimbledon, due to stress fractures in her back.

Ajla Tomljanovic has withdrawn from the US Open Women's Singles Main Draw.

Ella Seidel moves into the Main Draw.

— US Open Tennis (@usopen) July 28, 2026

This setback halted Kartal's progress, which had taken her to 44th place in the WTA rankings and saw her clinch her first circuit title. In 2025, she also reached her first WTA 1000 quarterfinals in Beijing, confirming her potential to establish herself in significant positions.

Her absence in New York further exacerbates the worrying spate of injuries in British tennis. Jack Draper is enduring a season heavily impacted by physical problems and has played only 13 matches in 2026. Emma Raducanu has also faced new setbacks during this season. Two key absences for the US Open and, especially in Kartal's case, another setback to a career that seemed poised for further growth.