Barbora Krejcikova (the current champion) and Naomi Osaka announced their withdrawal from the tournament in Dubai, Reuters reports. The “WTA 1000” competition will be held from February 18 to 24.
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Naomi Osaka and Barbora Krejcikova withdrew from WTA Dubai
Four-time Grand Slam champion Osaka made the decision after losing in the quarterfinals in Doha. Nippon has already competed in four tournaments this year after becoming a mother in 2023.
2021 Roland Garros champion Krejcikova defeated Iga Sviatek in the final act of the 2023 Emirates tournament but has now been forced to withdraw from the competition due to a back injury.
“It was not an easy decision, especially considering my fond memories and desire to play again. However, my back injury needs more time to heal. But I’m determined to come back stronger next year” – Barbora Krejchikova.
Naomi Osaka and tennis champion Barbora Krejcikova withdrew from the Dubai Tennis Championships. ❌ pic.twitter.com/50ErFlUW4T
— Sky Sports Tennis (@SkySportsTennis) February 16, 2024
The Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships runs from February 18 to 24 on hard, is part of the “WTA 1000” category and has a total prize pool of $3,211,715. Simona Halep won the tournament in 2015 and 2020, and the reigning champion is Barbora Krejcikova.
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Source: Hot News
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