DOHA: World number one Aryna Sabalenka has dismissed criticism over her late withdrawal from the Dubai Championships as “ridiculous,” and suggested she may not return to the event in the future, according to BBC.
Sabalenka, along with then world number two Iga Swiatek, pulled out of the WTA 1000 tournament on 13 February, just two days before it began. Tournament director Salah Tahlak later said both players should lose ranking points for withdrawing.
Responding to those remarks, Sabalenka criticized Tahlak’s comments, saying he “didn’t show himself in the best way possible.” The four-time Grand Slam champion added that it was disappointing to see tournaments failing to support players, accusing organizers of focusing more on ticket sales than player wellbeing. She also admitted the situation left her uncertain about returning to the event.
Sabalenka recently bounced back by winning the Indian Wells, her first title since finishing runner-up at the Australian Open in January. She explained that her team is prioritizing her health this season, building in breaks to rest and prepare for major competitions.
She is now set to defend her title at the upcoming Miami Open.
