NEW YORK — Karolina Pliskova will not play again in 2026, ending her season early after a second-round loss at the US Open to focus on recovery. The 34-year-old former world No. 1 and two-time Grand Slam finalist confirmed she will miss the Asian Swing, closing a comeback year that lifted her from outside the top 1000 to world No. 51 after quarter-final and semi-final runs in Madrid and Nottingham.
Pliskova announced the decision in a statement on social media, saying she needs time to heal. “After everything my body has been through over the last months, I have a few small things that need some time to heal properly. Nothing serious, but right now it makes sense to give my body the time it needs instead of pushing through it,” Pliskova wrote. “Of course I’m disappointed to miss these last tournaments of the year. Hope to see all my Asian fans next time. Thank you for all the support this year. See you soon.”
The early finish follows a lengthy injury layoff. Pliskova tore ligaments and tendons in her left ankle, underwent two surgeries and was out of action for over a year before returning to competition outside the top 1000. She rebuilt her ranking this season with a quarter-final at the Madrid Open and a semi-final at the Nottingham Open, finishing the year with 22 wins from 35 matches for a 62.9% win percentage.
Despite suggestions she could retire, Pliskova’s message indicated she plans to continue on the WTA Tour in 2027. She is not the only player to close her season early, with Amanda Anisimova also taking a break until 2027.