Elena Rybakina withdraws from French Open due to viral illness | Tennis News – Times of India

In a disappointing turn of events, Elena Rybakina, the fourth seed at the French Open, has been forced to withdraw from the tournament just ahead of her highly anticipated third-round match against Sara Sorribes Tormo. The Roland Garros tournament has lost one of its main contenders for the women’s title as a result.
Rybakina, who recently clinched the Rome title in the lead-up to the clay court Grand Slam, revealed that she had been feeling unwell for the past two days, which prompted her decision to withdraw. Speaking at a news conference, she explained, “I was not feeling good yesterday and the day before, so I didn’t sleep two nights and had some fever.”

The Kazakhstani player further elaborated on her condition, stating, “Today I really tried during the warm-up but I feel that the right decision is to withdraw because it’s really tough to play in this condition.” She also shared that she had consulted with a doctor, who informed her that a viral illness was spreading in Paris. Given her allergy and weakened immune system, Rybakina suspects that she caught the virus.
Being considered one of the title favourites alongside defending champion Iga Swiatek and Australian Open champion Aryna Sabalenka, Rybakina expressed her disappointment at being unable to compete. “I’m really upset not to be able to play, but I guess that’s life,” she lamented. “There are a lot of ups and downs. Today I just wanted to give 100%, and obviously I’m far from being 100%.”

Reflecting on her expectations coming into the tournament, Rybakina added, “I was actually feeling positive here, but you never know how you’re going to feel. It was unlucky for me. I’ll try to recover and do my best to be prepared for the grass season already.”
With Rybakina’s withdrawal, the French Open has lost a formidable contender in the women’s draw. Fans and fellow players will undoubtedly miss her competitive spirit and powerful game on the clay courts of Roland Garros. As she focuses on recuperating and preparing for the upcoming grass season, her absence leaves the field wide open for other players to make their mark in the tournament.
(With inputs from Reuters)