World No. 1 Rybakina pulls out of WTA Finals due to fitness concerns

FILE PHOTO: Kazakhstan's Elena Rybakina had won both the Australian and US Open this year. | Photo Credit: REUTERS

World number one Elena Rybakina ​has withdrawn from the ‌WTA Finals, the Kazakh said ​on Saturday, citing ⁠concerns over her fitness.

Ukrainian Marta Kostyuk will replace her in ‌the draw, playing Linda Noskova on the ‌opening day on Sunday.

“I ‌am ⁠really sad to inform ⁠all my fans and supporters that I unfortunately have to withdraw ​from the ‌WTA Finals this year,” Rybakina said in a statement. “I’ve had an incredible season ‌but my body is ​just not physically ready to compete.

“I’m going to ⁠spend some time resting and recovering at home and ‌getting myself ready for the 2027 season.”

Rybakina won her second major title of 2026 - and her third overall - at Flushing ‌Meadows two months ago, despite entering ​the tournament with injury concerns, after hurting ⁠her leg at the Cincinnati ⁠Open.

She withdrew from the Tokyo quarterfinals last month ‌because of a neck injury.

This year’s WTA Finals were originally scheduled to be held in Saudi Arabia, but in July were moved to Indian Wells, California.

The decision was taken following US military strikes on Iran in February and the subsequent war in the region.

Several more sports events in Saudi Arabia have been cancelled or postponed in recent weeks following attacks on the country.

“The WTA Finals is a very special tournament and I wish everyone the best of luck this week. Can’t wait to be back in Indian Wells in March,” said Rybakina in a statement released by the WTA.