Rybakina’s US Open Dream Dashed by Injury

Elena Rybakina, the reigning Wimbledon champion, has been forced to withdraw from the US Open due to an injury. The Kazakhstani star was scheduled to face French qualifier Jessika Ponchet in the second round, but her withdrawal opened up the draw for world No. 1 Iga Swiatek. Rybakina’s absence is her sixth tournament withdrawal or retirement this year. The Pole, seeking a second US Open title, cruised past Ena Shibahara in just 65 minutes, dropping only one game. Swiatek is now positioned for a smooth run to the title, with her next opponent being the winner of the match between Sofia Kenin and Jessica Pegula.