Rybakina Injury Derails Cincinnati Title Bid
Rybakina retires with ankle injury against Swiatek, missing chance to overtake Sabalenka as world No. 1.
The update
Two-time Grand Slam champion Elena Rybakina retired injured from her Cincinnati Open quarter-final against Iga Swiatek on Thursday. The 27-year-old was trailing 4-1 when she withdrew due to an ankle problem that had been bothering her. Rybakina, who won Wimbledon in 2022 and the Australian Open earlier this year, said walking was painful and she would undergo an MRI scan.
Why it matters
Rybakina’s retirement ends her chance of taking over as world number one. She needed to reach the Cincinnati final to overtake Aryna Sabalenka at the top of the rankings. Sabalenka had already been knocked out in the last 16 at the tournament in Ohio, making Rybakina’s path to the top spot clear had she advanced.
What to watch
How severe is Rybakina’s ankle injury and how might it affect her preparation for the upcoming US Open? The tournament begins August 30, and her recovery timeline will be crucial. Meanwhile, Swiatek advances to face Jessica Pegula in the semi-finals after Rybakina’s retirement.
Sources
- dpa international — Confirmed retirement details and ranking implications
- skysports.com — Additional context on injury and Swiatek's reaction
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