It’s official – a string of nightmares continues for Elena Rybakina. Her recent troubles thwarted her chances at crucial events and the Kazakhstani has now shared another disheartening update. Rybakina’s 2024 run suffered a major blow after she announced her withdrawal from the upcoming China Open in Beijing, slated to commence on September 25. However, that wasn’t the end of it.
Adding more to her misery, Rybakina published a statement wherein she confirmed pulling out of the Asian hardcourt swing entirely. Citing illness and physical restraints as the reason, the former World No. 3’s back injury was what led to her early exit at the US Open. Notably, she conceded her second-round clash against Jessika Ponchet. Just when things couldn’t possibly get any worse, troubling updates kept prevailing for the 25-year-old.
Following her New York shock exit, Rybakina announced her split with longtime coach Stefano Vukoc. Adding more fuel to the fire, the Kazakhstani also decided against attending the recently concluded Korea Open in Seoul. In her latest statement, the 2022 Wimbledon champion hoped to restore her health before the WTA Finals in November. For those unaware, this revelation marks her ninth overall withdrawal of the season. Furthermore, the 25-year-old’s no-show in Asia risks her falling out of the Top 4 in the world rankings.
She said, “Due to an ongoing back injury, I regretfully have to withdraw from the upcoming Asian tournaments. While I’ve been working hard on my recovery, my medical team and I have decided it’s best to prioritize my health at this time. This has been a challenging year and I am grateful for the support from the tournament organizers and all of my fans. My team and I will work on getting me back on the court before the season finale.”
However, Rybakina isn’t the only top talent to drop out of the China Open. Surprisingly, several players have pulled out of the WTA 1000 Masters event.
Iga Swiatek and Danielle Collins join Elena Rybakina on China Open withdrawal list
Elena Rybakina is joined by fellow players already registered under the long list of withdrawals at the China Open. For starters, World No. 1 Iga Swiatek won’t be defending her title in Beijing. The Pole has taken her name off the tournament’s contestants citing personal reasons. Moreover, just like Elena Rybakina, Swiatek was a no-show at the Korea Open as well due to exhaustion.
Notable players joining Swiatek and Rybakina in withdrawing from the WTA 1000 Masters event are Danielle Collins, Maria Sakkari, Elina Svitolina, Marketa Vondrousova, and Ons Jabuer. Don’t fret, the entire top brass of women contestants hasn’t pulled out. Newly crowned US Open champion Aryna Sabalenka, the event’s top seed, is all set to clinch her fourth crown of the season in Beijing. Moreover, other players who are slated to perform are Jessica Pegula, Coco Gauff, Paula Badosa, Emma Navarro, and many more.
Rybakina’s absence will be sorely missed by fans. What is rather worrisome, is her current condition. Hoping for a favorable outcome for the 25-year-old, the community will be eager to witness her back in action later this year and with it, turn her misfortunes into something commendable.
Leave a Reply