Beijing
Swiatek shuns China Open
Iga Swiatek pulled out of her China Open title defence on Friday and will miss the WTA event next week in Beijing.
The world No. 1 cited personal reasons for her withdrawal; she has not competed since losing a US Open quarter-final to Jessica Pegula.
Five-time Grand Slam champion Swiatek lifted the Chinese title a year ago over Liudmila Samsonova.
“Due to personal matters, I’m forced to withdraw from the China Open in Beijing,” Swiatek said in a statement.
“I’m very sorry as I had an amazing time playing and winning this tournament last year and was really looking forward to being back there.
“I know that the fans will experience great tennis there and I’m sorry I won’t be a part of it this time.”