The 25-year-old announced the decision on Wednesday, 30 September, explaining that she will use the remainder of the year to focus on her health, including adjusting her medication and nutrition protocols. She hopes to return to competition at the 2027 Australian Open.
Navarro said her health problems began around 2023, when she was competing heavily on the ITF and WTA tours. She experienced symptoms including increased hunger, fatigue, dizziness, headaches and a weakened immune system while continuing to compete.
She was diagnosed with RED-S in the autumn of 2025, with Hashimoto’s hypothyroidism also identified as a contributing health issue.
Navarro prioritises her health
The American said she had spent the past year working with doctors, nutritionists and other specialists while changing her diet and increasing her energy intake.
She acknowledged that her weight had increased during the recovery process but said the changes had helped her regain energy and improve her overall wellbeing.
“I gained some weight this year. But I also gained my life back,” Navarro said in her statement.
RED-S occurs when an athlete's energy intake is insufficient to meet the demands of training, competition and normal bodily functions. Hashimoto’s hypothyroidism is an autoimmune condition affecting the thyroid.
Strong 2026 season despite health challenges
Navarro's decision comes after a season that included some significant results.
She won the Strasbourg title in May, her third WTA singles title, and later reached the quarter-finals of the US Open. She was defeated by fellow American Jessica Pegula in the last eight at Flushing Meadows.
The result continued a career that has seen Navarro reach a career-high world ranking of No. 8. The WTA currently lists her at No. 24.
Her Strasbourg triumph was particularly significant after a difficult period. In an interview with the WTA following that victory, Navarro spoke about feeling physically and mentally better after addressing the problems that had affected her.
Navarro will now step away from competitive tennis for the remainder of 2026 as she continues her recovery.
Her stated target is to return to the tour for the Australian Open in January 2027.