Bianca Andreescu’s difficult journey continues as the former US Open champion officially withdraws from the 2025 Australian Open. The 24-year-old Canadian, plagued by injuries and mental health challenges, has faced a series of setbacks since her breakout 2019 season. Her absence marks the second consecutive year she will miss the Melbourne Slam, raising questions about her future in tennis.
Andreescu’s Withdrawal: A Long Road Back to Form
Andreescu’s 2024 season offered glimpses of hope but was ultimately marred by inconsistency and injury. After missing nine months due to a back injury, she made a comeback at the French Open via a protected ranking but managed to win only 21 matches across 10 tournaments. Her standout moment came with a runner-up finish at the Rosmalen Grass Court Championships, but her inability to stay on the court has overshadowed her potential.
Speculation about Andreescu missing the Australian Open began in December when journalist Stephanie Myles hinted at her likely withdrawal. Confirmations soon followed, with Canadian tennis expert Ben Lewis stating, “Bianca Andreescu… will not be competing in the 2025 Australian Open. The Canadian, currently ranked #132, will miss the slam in Melbourne for a second consecutive year.”
Andreescu, who would have needed to navigate the qualifying rounds to enter the main draw, had initially planned to kickstart her season at the ASB Classic in Auckland. However, citing “personal reasons,” she pulled out, raising concerns about her readiness for the Grand Slam season.
Personal Reflections and Struggles
Andreescu has been open about the challenges she has faced, both physical and mental. In an interview with Match Point Canada, she said: “The hardest test of my life is dealing with physical injuries, in addition to the mental health problems, which in a way go hand in hand.”
Writing in The Players’ Tribune, she reflected on the immense pressure to replicate her 2019 success: “I kept comparing myself to 2019. Always looking towards the past… I just wanted to get off the court as soon as possible.”
Despite her struggles, Andreescu remains committed to returning to form. She has been working with high-performance specialist Dr. Cowan, sharing on Instagram, “I’m looking and feeling amazing! Taking my health and performance to a new level.”
Other Major Absences: Wozniacki, Krejčíková, and Plíšková
Andreescu isn’t the only prominent player missing the 2025 Australian Open. Former champions and top players have also withdrawn:
- Caroline Wozniacki: The 2018 Australian Open champion had expressed excitement after receiving a wildcard entry but mysteriously withdrew without providing a reason. Her spot will be filled by Yulia Starodubtseva.
- Barbora Krejčíková: The 2024 Wimbledon champion cited a back injury as the reason for her withdrawal. She will be replaced by Nuria Párrizas Díaz.
- Karolína Plíšková: The former World No. 1 pulled out of the event, with Rebecca Marino stepping in as her replacement.
A Challenging Australian Open for the WTA
With several stars missing, the 2025 Australian Open will have a different dynamic, leaving the door open for new or rising talents to shine. However, fans will certainly feel the absence of household names like Andreescu, Wozniacki, and Krejčíková.
The tournament is set to showcase the likes of Aryna Sabalenka, Iga Swiatek, and Coco Gauff, who are all entering the season with momentum. While these absences are a disappointment, they underscore the physical and mental challenges of competing at the highest level.