Elena Rybakina withdraws from WTA Finals in Indian Wells

World No. 1 Elena Rybakina has withdrawn from the season-ending WTA Finals for the top eight players, which start on Sunday in Indian Wells. The Kazakh star — who won last year’s event in Riyadh without dropping a match — cited a viral infection as the reason and will not defend her title.

Rybakina to rest and prepare for 2027

“I am very sorry that I have to inform the fans that this year I am withdrawing from the WTA Finals. I had an incredible season, but my body is not physically ready to compete. I will rest and recover at home, and then I will begin preparations for 2027,” Rybakina said.

The withdrawal will not affect her year-end No. 1 status, which she secured through the end of the year. This season Rybakina won four tournaments, including the Australian Open and the US Open; together with Wimbledon in 2022 she now has three Grand Slam titles. She finished the season with a record of 54 wins and 14 losses.

Late last month Rybakina conceded her Tokyo quarterfinal due to a neck problem. Although it had already been certain she would finish the year at No. 1, she was unable to get ready for the Finals.

Ukrainian Marta Kostyuk will take Rybakina’s spot in the draw. Kostyuk is scheduled to play on Sunday in the opening match of Group 1 against Czech Linda Noskova; Group 1 also contains Americans Coco Gauff and Jessica Pegula.

Photo: press material from the event