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Injured Halep withdraws from Australian Open

Related Topics: Simona Halep, Australian Open

Simona Halep has withdrawn from Australian Open qualifying and will delay the start of her 2025 season after feeling pain in her knee and shoulder.

The former world number one, 33, received a wildcard from tournament organisers last week but said she felt discomfort after playing at the World Tennis League exhibition event in Abu Dhabi.

Halep was given a four-year doping ban that was reduced to nine months this year, and always maintained her innocence after being charged with two separate doping offences.

Now the former French Open and Wimbledon champion is trying to re-establish herself on tour, with injuries not helping her cause.