Elena Rybakina Withdraws from Tokyo Open Semi-Final Over Neck Injury

Elena Rybakina has announced she will not compete in her Tokyo Open semi-final match against Leylah Fernandez. This comes shortly after her victory at the Ningbo Open, where she defeated Fernandez decisively in the final.

Rybakina was expected to face Fernandez again in Tokyo, marking her first match since securing the year-end world number one ranking by reaching the quarter-finals in the Japanese capital.

Neck Injury Forces Withdrawal

The scheduled quarter-final clash was set as the third match of the day at the Tokyo Open but will no longer take place due to Rybakina withdrawing because of a neck injury. She shared a statement on the WTA Tour website explaining her condition.

"Dear fans, I’m very sorry to announce that I’ve had to withdraw from my next match. Unfortunately, I’ve been experiencing inflammation and pain in my neck, which has been affecting my ability to play at my best.""It’s a very difficult decision, as I love playing here and always appreciate the incredible support from the fans. I hope to be back again next year. Thank you all for your understanding and support."

This is the second year in a row Rybakina has pulled out mid-tournament at the Tokyo Open due to injury. Last year, she also withdrew at the semi-final stage after confirming her spot at the WTA Finals.

Looking Ahead

With just over a week before the WTA Finals, where she will defend her title in Indian Wells, Rybakina now has only one tournament remaining in her 2026 schedule.

Meanwhile, Fernandez advances to the semi-finals and will meet lucky loser Kamilla Rakhimova for a chance to reach her third WTA 500 final this season.

Tournament: Tokyo Open
Match withdrawn: Elena Rybakina vs Leylah Fernandez (semi-final)
Reason: Neck injury (inflammation and pain)
Previous encounter: Rybakina beat Fernandez at Ningbo Open final
Next event for Rybakina: WTA Finals at Indian Wells
Fernandez's next match: Semi-final vs Kamilla Rakhimova