Kembali
Eva Lys has brought her 2026 season to an early end as she seeks new treatment for her arthritis. The German star enjoyed a breakout 2025 season, reaching the second week of the Australian Open and upsetting Elena Rybakina in Beijing. But this year has not gone as well as planned, and she’s slipped down the rankings again, winning just eight matches. Now, the 24-year-old has decided to cut things short rather than play the final events of 2026.
In an emotional statement, the world No. 136 admitted this had been “one of the toughest years of [her] life”, and confirmed that she would be back in 2027. Taking to social media, Lys wrote: “Hey guys.
“As you’ve probably noticed, I’ve taken a little time away from everything lately. I wanted to share that I’ve made the decision to end my 2026 season early to focus on my physical and mental health.
“This has been one of the toughest years of my life, both on and off the court. After everything that happened last year, I came into this season with high expectations, big goals and a lot of excitement.
“But sometimes things just don’t go the way you planned. It’s been frustrating, exhausting and at times really hard to accept, especially when you work so hard for something and your body and mind just don’t cooperate.
“This year wasn’t what I wanted it to be, but it doesn’t change what I know I’m capable of.
“A big part of that has been my ongoing battle with arthritis, which has been particularly difficult to manage this year. After over six years, we’ve decided to take a big step and change my treatment. It’s a big adjustment, and something that will take time, but I’m hopeful that it’s a step in the right direction.
“If there’s one thing I want to take from this year, it’s that a little kindness goes a long way. Be kind, do your thing, and don’t be so quick to judge others. You never really know what’s going on behind the scenes. And to everyone who’s stuck around, supported me and continued to believe in me through all the ups and downs, thank you. I appreciate you more than you know.
“For now, I’m taking the time I need to get healthy again. Looking forward to 2027 and everything that comes with it. I’ll be back. Love you guys.”
Lys was diagnosed with spondyloarthritis, an autoimmune condition which affects her spine and joints, in 2020, but only spoke publicly about it a couple of years ago. Speaking at the 2025 French Open, she said: “In the last weeks, I'm not going to lie, I've had just days where my body was not doing what it's supposed to.
“Even like preparing here, maybe one or two practices less, because it's something I have to do. But I know that if I give my body time, it recovers. The next day I'm stronger than ever. I just need to find the right balance with regeneration and the practice process.”
But Lys will be seeking a new method of treatment before returning next season.