Navarro ends 2026 season early, reveals long-running health struggles

US Open semifinalist Emma Navarro has disclosed that she has been grappling with RED-S (Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport) and Hashimoto’s hypothyroidism for the past three years. The 25-year-old American, who advanced to the quarter-finals of her home Grand Slam this month, announced in an Instagram post that she opted to finish her 2026 season early to focus on medication and fueling strategies.

Navarro aims to return for the Australian Open next year, emphasizing that her health and well-being are more important than maintaining a certain weight or leanness. She explained that she is fine-tuning her medication and fueling protocols to regain her optimal health. RED-S is a condition where athletes do not receive sufficient energy for intense physical activities, while Hashimoto’s hypothyroidism is an autoimmune disorder that causes a slower metabolism due to the immune system attacking the thyroid gland.

Despite experiencing increased hunger and a weakened immune system since 2023, Navarro pushed through to keep up with the demanding tennis schedule. She battled headaches, dizziness, and fatigue during her quarter-final run at the 2025 Australian Open, which only became clear to her after doctors diagnosed her with Hashimoto’s hypothyroidism in November of that year.

Over the past year, Navarro has dedicated herself to changing her diet and increasing her energy intake, gradually improving her condition. Although she gained weight this year, she feels she has regained her life, having restored her energy to pursue her passion for tennis and other aspects of life with vigor.