Top-ranked and defending WTA Finals champion Elena Rybakina will not play in the 2026 WTA Finals, citing a medical withdrawal.
This year's WTA Finals will take place in Indian Wells, California.
Marta Kostyuk
will replace Rybakina in Group 1 and face No. 8 seed and Wimbledon champion Linda Noskova in an opening-day match on Nov. 8. Americans Jessica Pegula and Coco Gauff will play in the second robin-round match.
The other matches will pit No. 2 seed Aryna Sabalenka against No. 7 Karolina Muchova and third-seed Mirra Andreeva taking on Elina Svitolina, the No. 6 seed.
“I am really sad to inform all my fans and supporters that I unfortunately have to withdraw from the WTA Finals this year,” Rybakina said in a statement. “I’ve had an incredible season but my body is just not physically ready to compete. I’m going to spend some time resting and recovering at home and getting myself ready for the 2027 season. The WTA Finals is a very special tournament and I wish everyone the best of luck this week. Can’t wait to be back in Indian Wells in March!”
— wta (@WTA) November 7, 2026
Rybakina will end the year as the No. 1 ranked player after winning the Australian Open and the US Open.
She will end the year 54-14 and with four championships, including triumphs in Stuttgart and Ningbo.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Elena Rybakina withdraws from WTA Finals, Marta Kostyuk takes her place
