That’s one step forward and two steps backward for Caroline Wozniacki. The Dane, who is currently in action against Renata Zarazua in the second round of the US Open sustained a terrible fate. Not that misfortune bears any good virtue but, unfortunately for her, this couldn’t have come at a terrible time.

Exhibiting an impressive performance at the Louis Armstrong Stadium, Wozniacki earned a one-set edge over the Mexican sensation. However, while leading the duel 6-3, 5-3 with a break advantage, the Danish star was marred with an unexpected back injury. This, in turn, prompted the Flushing Meadows officials to induce an MTO (medical timeout) in hopes of remedying the former World No. 1’s physical troubles.

A sad moment indeed, especially when Wozniacki was sailing smoothly through the Mexican’s challenge and availed herself of a commanding position to dominate the match.

Nevertheless, the Dane mustered up the courage to fight through the test. Having seemingly recovered from the back injury, Wozniacki was clear on her assignment. Without wasting much of her energy, she sent the Mexican pro packing, concluding the contest with a score line of 6-3, 6-3. However, this isn’t her first time dealing with a physical concern.

Earlier this season, the Danish star was forced to retire from her quarterfinal match at the Bad Homburg Open. A wildcard entry, the 34-year-old fell during the opening set of her showdown against Emma Navarro, hurting her knee. Though she managed to bag the set, Wozniacki eventually conceded the match, 4-6, 6-1, 1-0. Moreover, this only goes to point out how the former World No. 1 needs to look after herself.

Her latest troubles in New York can cause long-term problems for the Dane if her back injury concerns are left unattended. Wozniacki’s career has been everything, but as of late, effortless.

Caroline Wozniacki cited physical game as her biggest obstacle

Apart from touring the circuit to establish her stronghold in the sport, Wozniacki has had to deal with multiple concerns. Notably, the Dane sustained a medial ailment in 2018, wherein she was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis. This, in turn, forced her to be selective of the tournaments she played to avoid excessive wear and tear. Moreover, she returned to the Tour after going on a pregnancy hiatus in 2020.

Later, she reserved a few words to term how the physical aspect of the game poses as the biggest challenge to her. She said, “I think it’s probably been physical. It’s been the biggest challenge, something that I’m not used to. And throughout my whole career, I’ve had thankfully, very limited injuries and been pretty healthy throughout. But coming back and just putting your body through that extra pressure and extra stuff is definitely not easy.”

All things considered, the tennis world will hope that the Danish star is fit for her upcoming contest. The 34-year-old is slated to take on Jessika Ponchet in the event’s third round on Saturday, August 31.