Elena Rybakina has withdrawn from the WTA Finals on medical grounds, leaving Marta Kostyuk to replace her at the tournament in Indian Wells.
The 27-year-old said her body was not physically ready to compete and that she would return home to rest and recover ahead of the 2027 season.
“I’ve had an incredible season, but my body is just not physically ready to compete,” Rybakina said in a statement. “I’m going to spend some time resting and recovering at home and getting myself ready for the 2027 season.”
Rybakina had been due to defend the title she won last year in Saudi Arabia. She had also postponed her pre-event news conference from Friday to Saturday and withdrew from the Pan Pacific Open quarter-finals the previous week because of a neck injury.
Marta Kostyuk replaces Elena Rybakina
Kostyuk, the first alternate in Group 1, will take Rybakina’s place and is scheduled to begin her campaign on Sunday against Wimbledon champion Linda Noskova.
Coco Gauff and Jessica Pegula are due to meet in the other match on Sunday.
Rybakina’s season included a three-set victory over two-time defending champion Aryna Sabalenka in the 2026 US Open final.
After celebrating with her team, Rybakina was joined on court by Maria Sharapova, who handed her the Tiffany-designed championship trophy as fireworks erupted inside Arthur Ashe Stadium.
