World number one Rybakina withdraws from WTA Finals
World number one tennis player Elena Rybakina has withdrawn from the WTA Finals due to a viral illness. The 27-year-old Kazakh star, who had a highly successful 2026 season, will focus on recovery for the 2027 campaign.
Why it matters
Rybakina's withdrawal significantly impacts the WTA Finals tournament, as she was the top-ranked player and defending champion.
World number one Elena Rybakina has withdrawn from the WTA Finals because of a viral illness.
Rybakina triumphed at the Australian Open and the US Open in a stellar 2026 as she established herself as the top-ranked women's singles player for the first time.
She was set to begin her bid to emulate American great Serena Williams by becoming the first player since 2014 to win the WTA Finals in back-to-back years on Sunday.
But the 27-year-old Kazakh announced on the eve of the tournament that she would not be able to defend her title in Indian Wells.
"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.
"I've had an incredible season but my body is just not physically ready to compete.
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