Rybakina Retires Injured in Cincinnati Quarter-Final Against Swiatek

Elena Rybakina's hopes of overtaking Aryna Sabalenka as the world number one were dashed when she retired due to injury during her quarter-final match at the Cincinnati Open against Iga Swiatek. Rybakina, the second seed, needed to reach the final to have a shot at the top ranking after Sabalenka's unexpected loss to Sara Bejlek in the fourth round.

The Australian Open champion struggled with a left ankle injury, managing to play only five games before calling for a medical timeout while trailing 4-1. After consulting with her trainer, Rybakina attempted to continue but withdrew after just one more point, citing pain that hindered her movement.

In her post-match comments, Rybakina expressed her disappointment, stating, "Of course I feel not the greatest, I couldn’t even push from the serve. It’s painful to walk. We’ll know more tomorrow when we have the MRI." She added that the injury had been a lingering issue but felt manageable before the match.

Swiatek, who recently defeated Rybakina in the Canadian Open final, advanced to face American Jessica Pegula in the semi-finals. The Polish player is aiming to become the second woman since Serena Williams to defend her Cincinnati title successfully.

Swiatek expressed her concern for Rybakina's health, emphasizing the importance of recovery ahead of the upcoming US Open. "I hope she’s going to be OK. Health is a priority," Swiatek remarked. The US Open is set to begin on August 30, where Sabalenka will be defending her title.