Australian Open 2026: Francesca Jones, Felix Auger-Aliassime & Marina Stakusic all retire with injuries in Melbourne

Jones was born with Ectrodactyly Ectodermal Dysplasia (EEC) and has three fingers and a thumb on each hand, three toes on her right foot and four on her left.

After a difficult 2024 in which he found himself outside the world’s top 150, Jones planned to retire in 2025 if his rankings did not improve.

Instead, she enjoyed a life-changing season that injected new energy into her tennis career.

Jones had qualified directly for the Australian Open main draw for the first time, but it marked a sad exit from a proud moment.

There was a somber atmosphere on the field as Jones, who was receiving treatment in the third set, cried loudly.

The crowd applauded in understanding as Jones limped away, covering his head with a towel.

It was the 16th time he retired from a game since the start of the 2023 season.

“I am not directly involved in any of the retirements of what might be called the ‘child with the syndrome,’” Jones said.

“I relate it to this: I feel like I didn’t have the team and the expertise I needed from a young age.

“So you can say I’m 25 years old, but my physical journey is still quite early.”