However, last year the Czech struggled for form and fitness before Krejcikova surprised the world at Wimbledon and won the title as the 31st seed.

This victory enabled the world no.10 to qualify for the singles tournament at the WTA Finals for the second time in her career, with Krejcikova pushing Iga Swiatek in a tight battle before advancing to the semi-finals.

At the season-ending tournament in November, Krejcikova suggested her previous back injury was feeling better, but it seems to have returned after the latest announcement.

Barbora Krejcikova withdraws from Australian Open due to back injury

Krejcikova has taken to social media to confirm that she will not be able to play the first major of 2025 due to a recurring back injury.

“Hi everyone, I wanted to share a quick update regarding my withdrawal from the Australian Open,” said Krejcikova. “Unfortunately, my back injury, which troubled me at the end of last season, is still not fully healed.

“It’s really disappointing because I love playing in Melbourne and have such great memories from reaching the quarterfinals last year. Thanks to all of you for your support. I’m working hard to get back to full health, and I can’t wait to see you on the court soon!”

Krejcikova had already caused concerns after withdrawing from the upcoming Adelaide International and has now confirmed that she will miss the entirety of the Australian swing.

The 12-time major winner matched her best result at the Australian Open last year by reaching the quarter-finals but has now been replaced by alternate Rebecca Marino.

Other notable withdrawals from the Australian Open

Krejcikova is not the only big name to have withdrawn from the Australian Open, with former champion Caroline Wozniacki also pulling out of the tournament that she won seven years ago.

The only other woman to have withdrawn from the Australian Open singles main draw is former No.1 Karolina Pliskova, who is continuing to recover from ankle surgery.

While in the men’s singles field, Sebastian Ofner and Emil Ruusuvuori have been replaced by Jacob Fearnley and Federico Coria, respectively.

The main draw of the Australian Open gets underway on Sunday January 12, with the qualifying draws beginning on Monday January 6.

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