Elena Rybakina has been compelled to withdraw from the 2024 Indian Wells Open, resulting in her inability to defend her title at the WTA 1000 competition. Despite her exceptional performance when in good health, particularly with only one loss at the height of her abilities in 2024, her recurring health issues, as evidenced by her absence from the Dubai Championships quarterfinals over two weeks ago, have posed challenges.
Unfortunately, Rybakina faced a more significant problem that led to her withdrawal from the 2024 Indian Wells Open just hours before her scheduled second-round match against Nadia Podoroska, despite having received a first-round bye as one of the seeded players. Despite the additional time for recovery, Rybakina is unable to compete in Indian Wells, thereby forfeiting her chance to defend her championship.
This setback significantly impacts her pursuit of the world no. 1 ranking, as Rybakina began the new season as one of the leading players in the 2024 WTA Race. Missing a WTA 1000 tournament like Indian Wells will likely affect her chances of reaching the top spot.
In terms of rankings, the 24-year-old will lose crucial 1000 points due to her withdrawal. However, given Jessica Pegula’s more than 800-point deficit in the live rankings, Rybakina’s current withdrawal may not have substantial immediate repercussions. While she won’t ascend to the world no. 3 spot, Pegula remains the sole player with the potential to surpass Rybakina’s world no. 4 position, necessitating a title to achieve this feat.
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