Elena Rybakina Pulls Out of Tokyo Open Semi-Final Against Leylah Fernandez Due to Neck Injury
Elena Rybakina Withdraws from Tokyo Open Semi-Final
Elena Rybakina has pulled out of her scheduled semi-final match against Leylah Fernandez at the Tokyo Open. The Kazakhstani player, who recently won the Ningbo Open by defeating Fernandez in a decisive final, was set to face her again in Tokyo. This would have been Rybakina's first match since securing the year-end world number one ranking after reaching the quarter-finals in Japan's capital.
Neck Injury Forces Withdrawal
Rybakina was slated to play Fernandez as the third match on the quarter-final day but will no longer compete due to a neck injury. In a statement on the WTA Tour website, she expressed regret about withdrawing and detailed the physical struggles she faced during the tournament.
"Dear fans, I'm very sorry to announce that I've had to withdraw from my next match," Rybakina said. "Unfortunately, I've been experiencing inflammation and pain in my neck, which has affected my ability to play at my best."
She added that the decision was tough because she loves playing in Tokyo and appreciates the support from fans. Rybakina hopes to return next year and thanked everyone for their understanding.
Recurring Withdrawal at Tokyo Open
This marks the second year in a row Rybakina has withdrawn mid-tournament at the Tokyo Open. Last year, she pulled out during the semi-finals after confirming her spot in the WTA Finals.
Upcoming Schedule and Impact on Draw
With this withdrawal, Rybakina now has only one tournament left in 2026. She has just over a week to recover before defending her title at the WTA Finals, scheduled this year at Indian Wells. Meanwhile, Fernandez advances to the semi-finals, where she will face lucky loser Kamilla Rakhimova. The winner will move on to their third WTA 500 final of the season.
- Tournament: Tokyo Open
- Match Withdrawn: Semi-final vs Leylah Fernandez
- Reason: Neck inflammation and pain
- Previous Encounter: Rybakina defeated Fernandez at Ningbo Open final
- Upcoming Event for Rybakina: WTA Finals at Indian Wells
- Fernandez’s Next Opponent: Kamilla Rakhimova
