By Richard Pagliaro | @Tennis_Now | Friday, February 16, 2024
A pair of Grand Slam champions are out of Dubai.
4-time main champion Naomi Osaka and 2021 Roland Garros singles and doubles champion Barbora Krejcikova have every withdrawn from subsequent week’s Dubai Responsibility Free Tennis Championships.
Organizers introduced the withdrawals on the match’s official web site.
Krejcikova, who toppled world No1 Iga Swiatek in straight units in final yr’s remaining to raise her maiden Dubai title, was pressured out the WTA 1000 occasion as she battles an ongoing again problem.
“It’s with a heavy coronary heart that I announce my withdrawal from the Dubai match,” the world No. 12 mentioned. “This determination wasn’t simple, particularly given my fond recollections and anticipation to compete once more.
“Nevertheless, my again harm requires additional therapeutic time. However I’m dedicated to returning stronger subsequent yr.”
Persevering with her comeback from maternity depart, Osaka reached the Doha quarterfinals yesterday bowing to Karolina Pliskova. Osaka, who didn’t cite an official cause in her withdrawal, is aiming to return at Indian Wells subsequent month.
“I’m actually sorry that I’ve to withdraw from the Dubai Responsibility Free Tennis Championships this season,” Osaka mentioned in a press release. “I’ve beloved enjoying in Dubai in earlier years, and I wish to want the match organizers a profitable occasion in 2024.”
Picture credit score: Robert Prange/Getty