Elena Rybakina, the 2022 Wimbledon champion and one of the rising stars of women’s tennis, has made an unexpected announcement that has sent shockwaves through the tennis world. In a statement released earlier today, the 25-year-old Kazakhstani player revealed that she will be taking an indefinite break from professional tennis, citing personal reasons.
Rybakina, currently ranked in the top 10 of the WTA, has been a consistent performer on the tour, known for her powerful serve, aggressive baseline play, and calm demeanor under pressure. Her decision comes just weeks before the start of the Asian hard-court swing, a critical period in the tennis calendar leading up to the WTA Finals.
In her statement, Rybakina expressed her gratitude for the support she has received throughout her career. “This was not an easy decision, but after careful consideration, I feel it is the right step for me at this moment. I need to prioritize my mental and physical health and take some time away from the tour to reflect and recharge.”
She did not elaborate further on the specifics of her reasons, but insiders suggest that the grind of the tennis calendar and recent struggles with injury and form may have contributed to her decision. Rybakina has battled with various injuries over the past year, which have hampered her performances in key tournaments.
The announcement has left fans and analysts alike speculating on the future of one of the sport’s most promising talents. Many players on the tour have expressed their support for Rybakina, including world number one, Iga Świątek, who tweeted, “Wishing Elena all the best during her time away. Hope to see her back on the court soon.”
The WTA also released a statement expressing their support for Rybakina, stating, “Elena Rybakina has been a tremendous ambassador for our sport, and we respect her decision to prioritize her well-being. We look forward to her return when she is ready.”
Rybakina’s absence will be a significant loss for the upcoming tournaments, where she has often been a fierce competitor and crowd favorite. As she steps away from the game, the tennis community will undoubtedly miss her presence on the court but will eagerly await her return whenever that may be.
