Rybakina reveals why she withdrew from WTA Tokyo

Elena Rybakina has not had a particularly beautiful celebration after confirming that she will end the year as the number 1 in the WTA ranking, as she has not even been able to take the court to face Leylah Fernandez in the quarterfinals of the WTA Tokyo due to an injury. However, the Kazakh player wanted to take the opportunity to explain to the audience present why she withdrew.

With a microphone in the middle of the court, Rybakina thanked all the attendees, later confirming that "I can’t play because I've been dealing with a small injury for a couple of days. It’s difficult for me to go out and give 100%, especially considering the important tournament I have in a few days. Thanks also to the tournament, I hope to return next year and thank you for all the support throughout the year."

A bittersweet end of the year for Rybakina

2026 has been the best year of Rybakina's career, having dethroned Aryna Sabalenka as queen of the WTA ranking and lifted two Grand Slams at the Australian Open and the US Open. However, the final stretch of the season has been accompanied by injuries and physical problems. In fact, she arrived at the US Open under careful management after withdrawing in Cincinnati, although she was ultimately able to participate and lift the trophy, and now she has also had to say goodbye prematurely in Tokyo.

Everything indicates that it is a precautionary measure to avoid missing the WTA Finals taking place in a few days, where she defends her title. In fact, in her own speech, it is hinted that this is the main reason, and that there will be no issues attending Indian Wells with the aim of defending her crown and preventing Sabalenka from closing in on the ranking.

This is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Rybakina desvela por qué se ha retirado del WTA Tokio