Dubai rocked as Sabalenka, Swiatek pull out

Next week’s WTA 1000 Dubai event suffered a seismic shock on Friday as the top two players on the planet both quit the event 48 hours before the start.

The hardcourt outing in the Gulf which begins on Sunday will have to go without world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka and hot rival Iga Swiatek, ranked second.

Sabalenka, losing finalist at the Australian Open a fortnight ago, has not played since losing the Elena Rybakina in Melbourne, also pulling out of the ongoing Doha tournament.

Her absence breaks a run of nine straight appearances in Dubai, dating to 2017.

Former world No. 1 Swiatek reached the quarter-finals a year ago, losing to eventual champion Mirra Andreeva.

Four-time Grand Slam winner Sabalenka cited illness for her late pullout.

“I’m really sorry I have to withdraw from Dubai. I have such a special connection with the tournament, the fans and the city.

Unfortunately, “I am not feeling 100 per cent. But I hope to be back next year and wish the tournament a great event.”

Swiatek, the 2023 Dubai finalist. claimed a “change of schedule.”

“I am sorry to announce that I will not be playing Dubai this year due to a change of schedule. I hope I will come back next year to experience the great tournament.

See you guys in Indian Wells.”

Main photo:-Aryna Sabalenka losing in Melbourne by ISF Ltd