Elena Rybakina has withdrawn from the Tokyo tournament due to a neck injury, just one day after securing the year-end world number one ranking. The Kazakhstani tennis player had advanced to the quarterfinals following a straight-sets victory over compatriot Yulia Putintseva (6-2, 6-3) in her opening match. That win mathematically guaranteed her the top spot in the world rankings at the conclusion of the season. Rybakina appeared on court today, but instead of facing her scheduled opponent, Leylah Fernandez, she addressed the spectators to announce her withdrawal. “I just wanted to thank you for coming today, but unfortunately, I will not be able to play,” Rybakina said. “I have been suffering from a small injury for a few days. It is difficult for me to play at 100%, especially with another very important tournament ahead.” In a subsequent official statement, her team clarified that she is suffering from “inflammation and neck pain.” Rybakina’s focus now shifts to the WTA Finals, which begin on November 8 in Indian Wells and feature the season’s top eight players. Following Rybakina’s withdrawal, Leylah Fernandez, ranked 23rd in the world, will advance to the semifinals, where she is set to face Kamila Rakhimova.
Article source: Sport Mediaset | Image credit: Sport Mediaset