Ailing Emma Navarro Pulls out of Charleston due to “Health Struggles”

2026 has been a slog for former World No. 8 Emma Navarro, and now it has slowed to a standstill. The 24-year-old announced on Thursday that she will skip her hometown tournament, the Credit One Charleston Open, due to what she referred to as “health struggles.” 

Navarro, who has won four of 13 matches played in 2026, has not defeated a player ranked inside the Top 50 since last September. 

Navarro, whose father Ben owns the tournament, did not mention a specific in jury. She last played in Austin at a 125k event in Austin, after losing in the first round to Sonay Kartal at Indian Wells.  


“I’m super disappointed to not be playing the Charleston Open this year,” she said in a statement. “This tournament means so much to me, and I never take for granted the opportunity to play at home in front of my family, friends, and the Charleston community. whose support is overwhelming and unconditional. 

“Unfortunately, I have been dealing with some health struggles over the past year or so that I am continuing to sort out. 
I am working closely with my doctors and team to feel the best I can, but I just need a bit more time in doing so. I feel optimistic that I’ll be back on court soon in the coming weeks. And I’m already looking forward to competing in Charleston next year.”

Navarro, who reached the 2024 US Open semifinals, has reached at least the quarterfinals at three of the four majors since the summer of 2024. She currently sits at No. 27 in the WTA rankings.

The Credit One Charleston Open’s main draw takes place from March 30-April 5.