Ons Jabeur’s wait for a first Grand Slam title won’t end at Flushing Meadows after the star confirmed she was pulling out of the US Open. Just hours after being drawn against the unseeded Russian Veronika Kudermetova in the first round, the 2022 finalist took to social media to explain her withdrawal.

Jabeur, 29, has been struggling with a shoulder injury, but was expected to recover in time to compete in New York.

However, in an emotional Instagram post, she pleaded for understanding with what she described as a “very tough” season set to end in disappointment.

“I am truly sad to announce that my shoulder won’t recover in time for the US Open,” she wrote. “I feel I need to give 100 per cent and today it’s not possible yet. Life has ups and downs, but sometimes in the very negative moments we all need to find the positive in it.

“This year has been very tough for me, but I know somewhere the light is there. I keep smiling like I always do because I am grateful for my life, my family, my sponsors and the fans that have always supported me. Always grateful for the unconditional support YOU all bring to me.”

In a vow to her 1.3million followers, she added: “If you are reading this post and wanting to wish me a speedy recovery, I truly appreciate it and cherish it. And if you are here to question my choices and my team, please find a little kindness in your heart.

“Because you don’t know what I have been going through for all of these years. I promise you once I get my strength back I will come back stronger. Love, Ons.”

Jabeur lost in the final of both Wimbledon and the US Open in 2022, losing to Elena Rybakina and Iga Swiatek respectively. The following season she reached the same stage at SW19 but was beaten in straight sets by world No. 42. Marketa Vondrousova, which she described as the “most painful loss” in her career.

But having been ranked as high as No.2 in the world, Jabeur’s struggles for form and fitness in 2024 have seen her drop to 17th in the rankings. She’s failed to get past the quarter-final stage in a Slam event, and missed the Paris Olympics with a knee problem.

It will be the first Slam Jabeur has missed since the 2022 Australian Open. US Open officials have already named the Tunisian’s replacement, making the announcement on social media.

“Ons Jabeur has withdrawn from the women’s singles event with an injury,” they wrote. “Jabeur will be replaced by the next highest-ranked player eligible to be seeded, Elise Mertens. Mertens will become the #33 seed. Get well soon, @Ons_Jabeur!”