Kazakhstan's Elena Rybakina rose to the top of the world rankings for the first time in September with a victory at the US Open in New York. (EPA Images pic)LOS ANGELES: World number one Elena Rybakina withdrew from the WTA Finals at Indian Wells on Saturday due to a viral illness.
Defending champion Rybakina said in a statement that she was "not physically ready to compete" in the traditional season-ender, which starts Sunday, and would focus on resting and recovering for her 2027 campaign.
"I am really sad to inform all my fans and supporters that I unfortunately have to withdraw from the WTA Finals this year," Rybakina said in a statement.
"I've had an incredible season but my body is just not physically ready to compete.
