Picture Credit: Twitter
Defending champion Iga Swiatek has pulled out of the ongoing Miami Open on Wednesday (March 22), hours prior to her Round of 64 match. The World number 1 ranked Polish star, who was set to face American tennis player Claire Liu on Thursday (March 23) cited rib injury as the reason of her last minute decision to withdraw.
The top-seeded player had earlier received a bye in her first round match at the hard court tournament. The 21-year-old Polish player had earlier complained of injury issues during her 6-2, 6-2 loss against Elena Rybakina in the recently concluded BNP Paribas Open semifinals.
“You know that in and after Doha I was struggling with a strong infection. I was allowed to play, but strong episode of tough cough led to a rib injury. We were trying to handle it and continue to play as long as it was safe for me,” Swiatek wrote in a statement. “Unfortunately, I’m still feeling a lot of discomfort and pain and I can’t compete,” she added.
Swiatek to miss Billie Jean King Cup qualifier
As the World number 1 added, injury concerns are likely to keep her out of the upcoming Billie Jean King Cup qualifier against Kazakhstan. The Qualifiers will take place on 14-15 April 2023, with the winning nations advancing to 2023 Finals.
“It’s truly difficult call not to play in Miami and Billie Jean King Cup, but health is the most. Time to accept it and get well as soon as possible,” the Polish star concluded.
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