TORONTO — Canadian tennis star Bianca Andreescu has opened up about her struggles with injuries and the emotional toll they have taken on her career, admitting that retirement has crossed her mind. The 2019 US Open champion, who has been plagued by a series of setbacks since her breakthrough, made the revelation during a press conference at the Canadian Open.
Andreescu, now 23, burst onto the scene in 2019 with a fairy-tale run to the US Open title, defeating Serena Williams in the final. However, her career has since been derailed by persistent injuries, including a torn meniscus, shoulder issues, and a stress fracture in her back. "There have been moments where I’ve thought, ‘Is this worth it anymore?’" she confessed.
A Career Marred by Injuries
Andreescu’s injury woes began shortly after her US Open triumph, forcing her to miss the entire 2020 season. Since then, she has struggled to regain her peak form, with recurring physical setbacks disrupting her momentum. The Canadian star has undergone multiple rehabilitation stints, but each return has been met with another setback.
Her latest injury, a stress fracture in her back, sidelined her for much of 2023. "It’s been one thing after another," Andreescu said. "Just when I think I’m back, something else happens. It’s mentally exhausting."
Key Injuries in Andreescu’s Career
- 2019 (Knee): Tore her meniscus during the WTA Finals, ending her season prematurely.
- 2020 (Shoulder): Missed the entire year due to a lingering shoulder issue.
- 2021 (Foot): Suffered a stress fracture in her foot, forcing another extended break.
- 2023 (Back): Diagnosed with a stress fracture in her back, sidelining her for six months.
The Mental Toll of Constant Setbacks
Beyond the physical pain, Andreescu has spoken candidly about the psychological impact of her injury struggles. "It’s not just the body that hurts—it’s the mind too," she admitted. "You start questioning everything—your career, your future, whether you should keep going."
Sports psychologist Dr. Rebecca Symes, who has worked with elite athletes, explains that repeated injuries can lead to a phenomenon known as "injury burnout." "When an athlete faces constant setbacks, the mental toll can become overwhelming, making retirement a genuine consideration," she said.
Support from Fans and Peers
Despite her struggles, Andreescu has received an outpouring of support from fans and fellow players. Serena Williams, whom she defeated in the 2019 US Open final, recently reached out with words of encouragement. "Bianca has so much talent and resilience—she’ll find her way back," Williams said in an interview.
Canadian tennis legend Eugenie Bouchard also weighed in, sharing her own experiences with injuries. "I’ve been there—it’s brutal. But if anyone can bounce back, it’s Bianca."
What’s Next for Andreescu?
Andreescu has not made a final decision about retirement but acknowledged that she is taking things "one day at a time." She plans to compete in the upcoming US Open but admits her participation will depend on her physical condition.
Her coach, Sven Groeneveld, remains optimistic. "Bianca is a fighter. If she can stay healthy, she has the game to compete at the highest level again."
For now, Andreescu is focused on recovery and regaining her confidence. "I love this sport, and I don’t want to walk away yet. But I also have to listen to my body."
As the tennis world watches, one thing is clear: Bianca Andreescu’s journey is far from over—whether she continues competing or makes the difficult decision to retire.