Magda Linette suffered a shocking loss at the US Open on Wednesday, falling victim to a bizarre sequence that left onlookers questioning whether a physical ailment contributed to her unusually erratic play. The Polish player, ranked 20th in the world, appeared to lose all sense of balance during a crucial point, culminating in what many described as a self-inflicted slap to the face with her own racket.
The incident occurred during Linette’s second-round match against Czechia’s Barbora Krejcikova. While Krejcikova ultimately won the match 6-3, 6-3, the focus quickly shifted to Linette’s inexplicable loss of coordination. Witnesses reported a visible stumble followed by a flailing motion with her racket, making contact with her face. The moment sparked immediate concern and speculation about Linette’s well-being, with some suggesting a possible medical issue. No player, even on an off day, exhibits such a complete breakdown of essential motor skills.
Linette’s performance throughout the match was uncharacteristically shaky, marked by numerous unforced errors and a visible struggle to maintain her footing. The US Open, the final Grand Slam of the year, carries important ranking and prize money implications for players. Linette’s early exit not only impacts her potential earnings for 2023 but also her seeding for future tournaments. The incident raises questions about athlete health and the pressures of high-level competition, and whether Linette will seek medical evaluation following the match.
Image credit: MINAS PANAGIOTAKIS / GETTY IMAGES NORTH AMERICA / GETTY IMAGES VIA AFP; source: AFP.
