Danish tennis player Clara Tauson has confirmed that she is dealing with two herniated discs in her back, which she says have contributed to her injury struggles during the 2026 season. The World No. 21 has experienced a drop in the WTA rankings after finishing the previous year at a career high of World No.12.
Tauson has been managing back pain for more than six months, which has affected her ability to complete matches and maintain consistent form. Her season has included retirements and withdrawals at several tournaments, including the Miami Open where she faced Katie Boulter and the Italian Open in Rome against Oleksandra Oliynykova. She also missed the Stuttgart Open due to the issue.
Her win loss record for the 2026 season currently stands at eight wins and nine defeats. She recently completed her first full singles match in two months, reflecting the ongoing impact of her physical condition on her schedule and preparation.
Speaking about her injury, Tauson explained that she is managing two herniated discs in her back and described the condition as long term. She noted that it requires continuous training and management, although it becomes difficult when competing in regular tournament schedules and training demands. She added that she has been dealing with the issue for some time but feels she is in a stronger mental position and is prepared to continue competing despite the physical challenges.
Tauson is set to compete at the 2026 French Open where she has been seeded 21st. She will begin her campaign against Ukraine’s Daria Snigur in the first round. If she progresses, she is scheduled to face either Sofia Kenin or Peyton Stearns in the second round, with a potential third round meeting against 11th seed Belinda Bencic.
