Rybakina Becomes Latest High-Profile Player To Withdraw From China Open

Elena Rybakina has withdrawn from the 2024 China Open in Beijing, further diminishing the competition at the WTA 1000 event. The 2022 Wimbledon champion began the season strongly, winning three titles in the first four months, including the Brisbane International, Abu Dhabi Open, and Porsche Tennis Grand Prix in Stuttgart, where she defeated Aryna Sabalenka in the final. She also reached two WTA 1000 finals in Doha and Miami but lost to Iga Swiatek and Danielle Collins, who has also withdrawn from the China Open.

Rybakina’s struggles began after her semifinal loss at Wimbledon to Barbora Krejcikova, a match in which she was favored to win. Following that disappointment, she withdrew from the 2024 Paris Olympics, citing bronchitis, leaving her fans disheartened as her doctor advised against travel.

She returned to the Cincinnati Open, where she faced Leylah Fernandez but lost despite having match points, resulting in a 6-3, 6-7, 4-6 defeat. Shortly after, just days before the US Open, Rybakina announced her split from longtime coach Stefano Vukov, who had been with her for over five years. The unexpected decision raised eyebrows, especially as rumors surfaced regarding Vukov being banned from the WTA Tour, although the reasons remain unclear.

Rybakina’s withdrawal from the US Open hours before her second-round match against Jessika Ponchet intensified speculation about her situation. She has since also withdrawn from the Korea Open in Seoul, where Beatriz Haddad Maia claimed victory.

Her latest withdrawal from the China Open is attributed to a recurring back injury, the same issue that forced her out of the Korea Open. As a result, Rybakina will lose 390 ranking points from her semifinal appearance at last year’s China Open. Although she has not officially confirmed her spot at the WTA Finals, she may still qualify without needing additional points.

Iga Swiatek has also withdrawn from the China Open due to personal issues. If Aryna Sabalenka wins the tournament, her No. 1 ranking could be in jeopardy.