Elena Rybakina Withdraws from Tokyo Open Semi-Final Against Leylah Fernandez Due to Neck Injury

Elena Rybakina Pulls Out of Tokyo Open Semi-Final

Elena Rybakina will not compete in her scheduled Tokyo Open semi-final match against Leylah Fernandez. The Kazakhstani star recently won the Ningbo Open, defeating Fernandez decisively in the final. Their rematch in Tokyo was highly anticipated, marking Rybakina’s first match since securing the year-end world number one ranking after reaching the quarter-finals in Japan’s capital.

Neck Injury Forces Withdrawal

The match, planned as the third on the quarter-final day, has been cancelled following Rybakina’s withdrawal due to a neck injury. She issued a statement through the WTA Tour website explaining the situation and apologizing to fans.

"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 affected my ability to perform at my best," Rybakina said."It’s a tough choice because I love playing here and truly appreciate the amazing support from everyone. I hope to return next year. Thank you all for your understanding and support."

This marks the second year in a row that Rybakina has pulled out mid-tournament at the Tokyo Open, previously withdrawing at the semi-final stage last year due to injury after confirming her spot for the WTA Finals.

Next Steps for Rybakina and Fernandez

Rybakina now has only one tournament left on her 2026 schedule. She has just over a week to recover before defending her title at the WTA Finals, set to take place this year at Indian Wells.

With Rybakina out, Fernandez moves forward to the semi-finals. She will face lucky loser Kamilla Rakhimova, competing for a spot in her third WTA 500 final of the season.