World No.1 Rybakina withdraws from WTA Finals due to virus

Los Angeles, United States: World number one Elena Rybakina has pulled out of the WTA Finals in Indian Wells due to a viral illness, according to a statement released on Saturday. The defending champion explained that she is not physically ready to compete in the season-ending event, which begins today, and will instead focus on resting and recovering for her 2027 campaign.

"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." A WTA spokesperson confirmed that the official reason for Rybakina's withdrawal is a viral illness. In her place, Ukraine's Marta Kostyuk will join the Group One lineup at the tournament.

Rybakina ascended to the top of the world rankings for the first time in September after winning the US Open in New York. However, last month she withdrew from the Pan Pacific Open in Tokyo due to a neck injury, just a day after securing the year-end world number one ranking with a victory in her opening match. This achievement marked a successful year for Rybakina, who also claimed the Australian Open in January and secured three Grand Slam titles, her first coming at Wimbledon in 2022.

Rybakina had an undefeated run at the 2025 WTA Finals in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, but the tournament's location was changed to Indian Wells, California in July following US military strikes on Iran in February and the ensuing war in the region. Several other sports events in Saudi Arabia have been canceled or postponed in recent weeks due to attacks on the country.

Rybakina expressed her disappointment and wished everyone the best of luck, stating that she looks forward to returning to Indian Wells in March.