Elena Rybakina releases statement as she withdraws from her Tokyo Open match vs Leylah Fernandez, ‘I’m very sorry’
· Yahoo Sports
Elena Rybakina will not take to the court for her Tokyo Open semi-final against Leylah Fernandez.
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Rybakina won the Ningbo Open title last week, where she beat Fernandez in a one-sided final.
The Kazakhstani was set to face Fernandez again in Tokyo, in her first match since Rybakina confirmed her spot as year-end world number one after reaching the quarter-finals in the Japanese capital.
However, this match will no longer be happening, with Rybakina releasing a statement after withdrawing from the upcoming match.
Elena Rybakina withdraws from the Tokyo Open with neck injury
Rybakina was scheduled to play Fernandez in the third match of the quarter-final day at the Tokyo Open, but this match will no longer be happening after the former withdrew due to a neck injury.
In a statement released on the WTA Tour website, Rybakina apologised as she explained the physical issues she was experiencing during her time in Tokyo.
“Dear fans, I’m very sorry to announce that I’ve had to withdraw from my next match,” said Rybakina. “Unfortunately, I’ve been experiencing inflammation and pain in my neck, which has been affecting my ability to play at my best.
“It’s a very difficult decision, as I love playing here and always appreciate the incredible support from the fans. I hope to be back again next year. Thank you all for your understanding and support.”
This is the second consecutive year that Rybakina has withdrawn mid-tournament at the Tokyo Open, having withdrawn due to injury at the semi-final stage last year after confirming her qualification for the WTA Finals.
Rybakina now has only one tournament left to play in 2026, with just over a week to recover before she defends her title at the WTA Finals, which will be held at Indian Wells this year. While Fernandez will now progress to the semi-finals, where she will face lucky loser Kamilla Rakhimova for a place in her third WTA 500 final of the season.