New Delhi, November 8, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
World No. 1 Elena Rybakina has withdrawn from the 2026 WTA Finals at Indian Wells due to a viral illness, bringing her season to an early close.
“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 in a statement.
“I’ve had an incredible season but my body is just not physically ready to compete. I’m going to spend some time resting and recovering at home and getting myself ready for the 2027 season. The WTA Finals is a very special tournament and I wish everyone the best of luck this week. Can’t wait to be back in Indian Wells in March!” she added.
Marta Kostyuk, the first alternate, will replace Rybakina in Group 1. She is scheduled to face Linda Noskova in Sunday’s opening match and will also take on Coco Gauff and Jessica Pegula in the round-robin stage, according to the WTA.
Rybakina entered the season-ending tournament as defending champion after winning the 2025 edition in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, without losing a match. This year, she became the first singles player to qualify after winning her third Grand Slam title at the US Open, where she also claimed the World No. 1 ranking.
She finishes the 2026 WTA season with a 54-14 win-loss record and four titles — the Australian Open, Stuttgart, US Open and Ningbo. Despite her withdrawal, she secured the year-end World No. 1 singles ranking presented by PIF while in Tokyo.
Sunday’s opening match will mark the fourth meeting between Noskova and Kostyuk this season. They have faced each other on all three surfaces, with Noskova winning their only hard-court encounter at the US Open fourth round, 7-5, 5-7, 6-4.
Noskova won their grass-court meeting in the Wimbledon semi-finals, while Kostyuk prevailed on clay on her way to the Madrid title. Both matches were decided in straight sets.
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