Source : INDIA TODAY NEWS
Iga Swiatek has suffered a major setback after withdrawing from the Ningbo Open due to a persistent left thigh injury, ending her hopes of qualifying directly for the 2026 WTA Finals. The six-time Grand Slam champion needed a strong run in China to secure her place at the season-ending tournament in Indian Wells.
This marks the first time since 2019 that Swiatek will miss out on qualifying for the WTA Finals. Although she qualified in 2020, that edition was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Polish star’s only remaining route into this year’s event is as an alternate, should a qualified player withdraw.
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“After careful consideration, I’ve decided to withdraw from the tournament. I’ve been experiencing an ongoing problem with my left thigh over the past weeks and I feel that giving myself the time to rest and recover is the right decision”
SWIATEK’S INJURY TROUBLES IN WUHAN
Swiatek’s physical problems were evident during her Wuhan Open campaign last week. The former world No.1 reached the semi-finals, where she faced compatriot and childhood friend Maja Chwalinska, but struggled with a left thigh injury that affected her movement around the court.
Swiatek had taken a 5-3 lead in the opening set and held two set points before Chwalinska fought back. The Pole received medical treatment and continued with her thigh bandaged, but eventually lost 5-7, 1-6. Despite advice from her physiotherapist to retire, she chose to complete the match.
The injury has now forced Swiatek to prioritise recovery over her bid to reach the WTA Finals. She needed at least a quarter-final appearance in Ningbo to remain in contention for the final qualifying spot, currently held by Karolina Muchova. Her withdrawal ended that opportunity.
Swiatek, who won the WTA Finals in 2023, has endured a challenging season by her standards. She has struggled to maintain consistency at the biggest tournaments, failing to progress beyond the quarter-finals at any Grand Slam this year.
With her direct qualification hopes over, Swiatek must now focus on recovering from the injury and preparing for the next season. Whether she features as an alternate at the WTA Finals remains to be seen.
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SOURCE :- TIMES OF INDIA
