Miami Open: Defending champion Iga Swiatek pulls out with injury
The world number one was due to play American Claire Liu in the second round of the tournament on Thursday after receiving a bye
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Defending champion Iga Swiatek has withdrawn from the Miami Open after “feeling a lot of discomfort” due to a rib injury.
The world number one was due to play American Claire Liu in the second round of the tournament on Thursday after receiving a bye.
However, Swiatek revealed in a statement on social media that she had been struggling with a rib issue sustained during last month’s Qatar Open, which she went on to win.
The Pole confirmed that she will take a break, meaning she is also set to miss the upcoming Billie Jean King Cup in April.
She said: “You know that in and after Doha I was struggling with a strong infection. I was allowed to play, but a strong episode of tough cough led to a rib injury.
“We were trying to handle it and continue to play as long as it was safe for me. We were analysing the data in the last days and my doctor prepared my diagnosis.
“Unfortunately, I’m still feeling a lot of discomfort and pain and I can’t compete.
“I need to take a break to recover and I have to pull out of the Miami Open and Billie Jean King Cup.
“I will keep you updated about where I play next, because it depends on my process of recovering and the recommendation of my medical team. I have the best team behind me, we only need some time to deal with the injury.
I'm grateful this is the first health issue in a long time and I was able to compete in perfect shape for so long, but that's sports, it happens sometimes, without our control
“It’s a truly difficult call to not play in Miami and BJKC, but health is the most important.
“I’m grateful this is the first health issue in a long time and I was able to compete in perfect shape for so long, but that’s sports, it happens sometimes, without our control.
“Time to accept it and get well as soon as possible.”
Swiatek’s withdrawal means that Julia Grabher will take her place in Miami.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments