NEW YORK—In a surprising turn of events, fourth-seeded Elena Rybakina has withdrawn from the US Open, allowing French qualifier Jessika Ponchet to advance to the third round.
Rybakina announced her decision in a statement, citing injuries as the reason for her withdrawal. “Unfortunately, I have to withdraw from my match today due to my injuries. I didn’t want to finish the last Grand Slam of the year this way, but I have to listen to my body. I hope to close out the remainder of the year strong,” Rybakina shared. “Thank you to all the fans who have supported me, and I wish the remaining players good luck.”
The 2024 season has been challenging for Rybakina, marked by several withdrawals due to illness. She recently pulled out of the Paris Olympics, Toronto, and Rome, where she was the defending champion, all due to illness. Earlier in the year, she also withdrew from Indian Wells, where she was set to defend her title, and prior to the Dubai quarterfinals.
Despite these setbacks, Rybakina has shown her strength when able to compete, securing 41 wins this season and claiming titles in Abu Dhabi and Stuttgart. However, the ongoing health issues have forced her to end her US Open journey prematurely.
As Rybakina focuses on recovery, Ponchet moves forward, making the most of her opportunity in New York.
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