World number one Rybakina withdraws in Tokyo with injury

Elena Rybakina, the reigning world number one, has pulled out of the Pan Pacific Open in Tokyo due to a neck injury. The withdrawal came a day after she solidified her position at the top of the rankings. Rybakina, a native of Moscow, was set to face Canada's Leylah Fernandez in the quarter-finals but instead appeared on court to meet fans and sign autographs.

She announced her absence, citing ongoing injury struggles. The 27-year-old expressed gratitude for the crowd's support but acknowledged the importance of an upcoming tournament. Rybakina secured the world number one ranking with a victory at the US Open last month, replacing Aryna Sabalenka. She had also won the Australian Open earlier in the year, giving her three Grand Slam titles.

Her latest win was at the Ningbo Open in China, where she defeated Fernandez in the final. Rybakina arrived in Tokyo after her recent success, having won another title in China just a week prior. Despite her setback, she expressed appreciation for the ongoing support and promised to return for the WTA Finals in Indian Wells next month.