Coco Gauff has withdrawn from the Madrid Open ahead of her fourth-round match due to a viral illness, tournament organizers confirmed on Wednesday. The American world No. 3 was scheduled to face Brazil's Beatriz Haddad Maia later in the day but pulled out after feeling unwell.
Withdrawal Details
Gauff, 21, had been dealing with symptoms since her third-round victory over Viktoriya Tomova on Tuesday. Despite attempts to recover, she was unable to compete. “I’m disappointed to have to withdraw from the Madrid Open due to a virus,” Gauff said in a statement. “I tried my best to be ready, but my body just couldn't handle it. I wish the tournament and the remaining players the best.”
Impact on Tournament
Gauff’s withdrawal opens up the draw for other contenders. Haddad Maia advances to the quarterfinals to face either Ons Jabeur or Jelena Ostapenko. Gauff, a Grand Slam champion, has been in strong form this season, reaching the semifinals in Indian Wells and the quarterfinals in Miami. This marks the first time she has withdrawn mid-tournament due to illness.
- Gauff was the second seed in Madrid.
- She had a bye in the first round and defeated Tomova in straight sets.
- The Madrid Open is a key clay-court tune-up for the French Open.
Fans and fellow players expressed support on social media, with many wishing her a speedy recovery. The tournament continues as scheduled, with top seed Iga Swiatek still in contention.
