World No. 1 Iga Swiatek has withdrawn from the upcoming National Bank Open in Toronto, a US Open warm-up event, citing fatigue after a grueling schedule that included the Paris Olympics where she won a bronze medal. Swiatek’s decision comes as several other prominent players have also pulled out of the tournament.
Grand Slam champions Barbora Krejcikova, Elena Rybakina, and Marketa Vondrousova have all withdrawn, along with players like Jasmine Paolini, Maria Sakkari, Danielle Collins, and Caroline Garcia. Krejcikova, the reigning Wimbledon champion, cited a thigh injury sustained during her Olympic quarterfinal run. Rybakina attributed her withdrawal to acute bronchitis, which also prevented her from participating in the Paris Games.
Swiatek, a five-time Grand Slam champion with four French Open titles and one US Open title, expressed her regret in a statement, mentioning the need for time off after a hectic period on different surfaces.
The withdrawals have opened up opportunities for other players, with former Grand Slam champions Sofia Kenin and Sloane Stephens moving into the main draw for the Toronto tournament. The National Bank Open, which begins on Tuesday, is set to be a competitive event despite the notable absences.
