Elena Rybakina, the world No. 4 and 2022 Wimbledon champion, has withdrawn from the 2024 US Open due to injuries. This unexpected decision came just before her second-round match, allowing French qualifier Jessika Ponchet to advance to the third round without playing.
Rybakina’s withdrawal is a significant blow to the tournament, as she was one of the top contenders. She had a strong start to the year, winning titles in Brisbane, Abu Dhabi, and Stuttgart, and reaching the semifinals in Madrid and the quarterfinals at Roland Garros. However, her season has been marred by a series of physical setbacks, including a bout of bronchitis that forced her to miss the Olympics and the National Bank Open in Toronto.
In her statement, Rybakina expressed her disappointment, saying, “I did not want to finish the last Grand Slam of the year this way but I have to listen to my body. I hope I can close out the remainder of the year strong.” Her decision underscores the importance of athletes prioritizing their health, even at the expense of missing major tournaments.
Ponchet, who had never advanced past the first round in a Grand Slam before this US Open, now finds herself in the third round. This unexpected opportunity could be a turning point in her career, highlighting the unpredictable nature of sports.
Rybakina’s fans and the tennis community will undoubtedly miss her presence at the US Open, but her focus on recovery is crucial for her long-term career. As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on how the remaining players seize this opportunity in her absence.
Rybakina at the U.S. Open, ranking, and results in 2024
Ranked no.4, the Kazakhstani has achieved a composed 41-9 record in 2024. The Kazakhstani is currently competing at the U.S. Open where she managed to beat the world no.194 Destanee Aiava 6-1 7-6(1).
Elena Rybakina will face the world no.143 Jessika Ponchet in the 2nd round on Thursday at 7:00 pm on Stadium 17. They have never competed against each other up to now in top events.
Rybakina conquered 3 titles in 2024 in Brisbane, Abu Dhabi and Stuttgart. Elena was the finalist in Doha (Qatar TotalEnergies Open) and in Miami (Miami Open).
Rybakina won 8 titles in her career: 4 on hard courts, 3 on clay courts and 1 on grass courts. (See the list of her titles)