Just three games into his opening match at the National Bank Open, Vasek Pospisil’s run at the tournament came to an abrupt end.
The 34-year-old Canadian was forced to retire after sustaining what appeared to be a lower-body injury while facing 24-year-old Sebastian Korda on Wednesday night in Montreal.
As a result of Pospisil’s withdrawal, Korda automatically advances to the second round and will face fellow American Taylor Fritz on Thursday.
Pospisil, a native of Vernon, B.C., is the second Canadian to withdraw from the National Bank Open due to injury. Milos Raonic pulled out Tuesday night, announcing that he is dealing with a shoulder injury.
No Canadian men remain in the tournament after Felix Auger-Aliassime and Denis Shapovalov lost in singles on Wednesday, and Gabriel Diallo lost on Tuesday.
Canadian tennis player Vasek Pospisil has announced his withdrawal from the National Bank Open due to a lingering injury. The 31-year-old, who was set to compete in the prestigious tournament in Toronto, revealed on social media that he is still recovering from a back injury that has been bothering him for some time.
Pospisil, who reached a career-high ranking of World No. 25 in 2014, has been struggling with injuries in recent years. The Canadian has had to deal with various setbacks, including wrist and back issues, which have hampered his ability to compete at the highest level.
In his statement, Pospisil expressed his disappointment at having to pull out of the National Bank Open, but emphasized the importance of prioritizing his health and well-being. He thanked his fans for their support and assured them that he is working hard to get back to full fitness as soon as possible.
The withdrawal of Pospisil is a blow to Canadian tennis fans, who were looking forward to seeing one of their own compete on home soil. However, his decision to prioritize his health is a wise one, as pushing through injuries can often lead to further complications and long-term damage.
Pospisil’s withdrawal serves as a reminder of the physical toll that professional athletes endure in their quest for success. Injuries are an unfortunate reality of sports, and it is crucial for athletes to listen to their bodies and seek proper treatment when needed.
As Pospisil continues his recovery, fans will be eagerly awaiting his return to the court. In the meantime, they can take solace in the fact that he is taking the necessary steps to ensure his long-term health and success in the sport.