World’s number one Elena Rybakina (Kazakhstan) has withdrawn from the WTA 500 hard court tournament in Tokyo, Japan, with a neck injury.
Earlier this week, she secured the year-end world number one ranking for the first time in her career after winning two Grand Slam titles this season.
“Dear fans, I am very sorry to announce that I have to withdraw from my next match. Unfortunately, I have inflammation and pain in my neck that are affecting my ability to play at my highest level. This is a very difficult decision as I love playing here and I always appreciate the incredible support from the fans. I hope to be back next year. Thank you all for your understanding and support”, wrote Elena Rybakina in a statement, quoted by the WTA website.
Thus, her rival Leila Fernandez (Canada) qualified for the semifinals without a game, and in the dispute for a place in the final she will face Kamilla Rakhimova (Uzbekistan), who defeated Maya Joint (Australia) by 2-1 (7:5, 5:7, 6:1).
