"Officially started rehab and training": Victoria Azarenka gives injury update after Miami Open retirement

Saturday, 29 March 2025 at 00:31

Victoria Azarenka shared an update on her health status after retiring due to injury at the Miami Open. The former world No. 1 had a strong first-round performance with a victory over Anhelina Kalinina but was forced to retire against Karolina Muchova (15th seed) while trailing 0-6, 0-0.

At the start of the set, Azarenka suffered a serious injury after hitting the back wall, which quickly complicated things. On the next point, while hitting a backhand, she appeared to sustain an evident shoulder injury, leaving the Belarusian in tears as she was attended to on the same baseline where the injury occurred.

Sad scenes in Miami.

Victoria Azarenka crying while leaning against the wall.

Looks like she has dislocated her shoulder.

Physio back again on court and sat her down on a chair.

Karolina Muchova up 6-0 (40-40) pic.twitter.com/o55lxSHPRl
— edgeAI (@edgeAIapp) March 21, 2025

Medical professionals quickly rushed to the scene, as Azarenka’s injury appeared to be serious. Her Miami rival, Karolina Muchova, also showed great sportsmanship by expressing concern for Azarenka, going over to check on her during the injury and later carrying the two-time Grand Slam champion’s racket bag off the court.

Karolina Muchova carrying Victoria Azarenka’s bag off the court in Miami after she was forced to retire due to injury. ❤️‍🩹

An incredible tennis player, but also an incredibly classy person. ❤️

pic.twitter.com/mHZ95cOWvW
— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) March 21, 2025

Azarenka provided an update on her injury, stating that she would be taking some time off the court for rehabilitation, but mentioned that there would be no long-term damage “Quick update on my injury: I’ve been working through the diagnosis and have now officially started rehab and training,” she posted on her X account.

“The good news is there’s no long-term damage, but it will still take a bit of time to recover fully. I really appreciate all the messages and support—it means a lot. Thank you also to my opponent, Karolina, for being so kind and gracious,” the former world No. 1 added. “Injuries are unfortunately part of what we do, and while this is a setback, I’m focused on overcoming the challenge, putting in the work, and seeing where the journey leads.”

Quick update on my injury: I’ve been working through the diagnosis and have now officially started rehab and training. The good news is there’s no long-term damage, but it will still take a bit of time to recover fully. I really appreciate all the messages and support—it means a…
— victoria azarenka (@vika7) March 28, 2025

Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist

Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.

His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.

In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.

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