The Korea Open is facing a wave of withdrawals as top players pull out due to injuries and fatigue. World number one Iga Swiatek, who recently won the French Open and took bronze in the Paris Olympics, will not be defending her title in Seoul. Swiatek, who also withdrew from the Canadian Open citing fatigue, is opting to prioritize her health and recovery.
Joining Swiatek on the sidelines is defending champion and U.S. Open finalist Jessica Pegula. The American player has sustained a rib injury that will keep her from competing in the WTA 500 event.
The withdrawals don’t stop there. Former Wimbledon champion and world number four Elena Rybakina has also announced her absence due to a back injury. Adding to the list of absentees is U.S. Open semi-finalist Emma Navarro, who has withdrawn due to a change in her schedule.
With so many top players out of the tournament, the Korea Open, scheduled for September 16-22, will see a reshuffling of the field as other players vie for the title. Fans will be disappointed by the withdrawals, but will surely be eager to see how the remaining competitors perform on the court.
