Elena Rybakina doubtful for WTA Finals after worrying absence

Elena Rybakina, the tennis star, now faces uncertainty over her participation in the WTA Finals, which are due to begin on 8 November in Indian Wells. The current world number one, who has enjoyed an extraordinary season, winning both the Australian Open and the US Open, did not attend the tournament’s press day, raising concerns about her health.

All eight players were present in Indian Wells, but Rybakina was an exception, as confirmed by Shad Powers of the Desert Sun. “Some news from the WTA Finals. Defending champion Elena Rybakina did not attend her press duties today due to illness,” Powers wrote. Her absence is all the more worrying because, if she cannot compete, Marta Kostyuk, who is the alternate, could enter the competition. Kostyuk finished her season just over 400 points short of qualifying for the WTA Finals, making her a valid addition to the tournament, but it would be a heavy blow for Rybakina to be forced to withdraw.

Despite shining throughout the 2026 season, Rybakina had a disappointing spell in Asia, playing in only three tournaments, where she failed to get past the first round at the China Open and the quarter-finals at the Pan Pacific Open. Her absence from the Wuhan Open also contributed to a less favourable period in her career, raising further questions about her physical condition as the season’s final event approaches.

If Rybakina is unable to compete at the WTA Finals because of this illness, it would be a disappointing way to end a season that was otherwise marked by significant success. As well as the titles in Melbourne and New York, she also triumphed in Ningbo and Stuttgart. Whatever happens at the WTA Finals, it is already guaranteed that Rybakina will finish the year as world number one, a notable achievement that reflects her excellence throughout the season.

Rybakina currently holds a lead of 1614 ranking points over Aryna Sabalenka as she prepares for the WTA Finals. If she does not take part, her next tournament is expected to be the Brisbane International, but tennis fans are expected to be eager to see her in action before the year ends.