Just how sick Elena Rybakina was became painfully evident when her WTA Finals interview with Canal+ surfaced. Her face was visibly flushed, her eyes hidden behind dark sunglasses, and she struggled to concentrate and respond to questions. The interview was eventually cut short after it became clear that she was simply too unwell to continue.
Elena Rybakina miała porozmawiać z @SaKostecka przed rozpoczęciem WTA Finals, jednak ostatecznie do rozmowy nie doszło, a tenisistka ostatecznie wycofała się z turnieju.
Życzymy szybkiego powrotu do zdrowia! https://t.co/lhkY5tPiXx
— CANAL+ SPORT (@CANALPLUS_SPORT) November 7, 2026
Rybakina broke our hearts when she announced her withdrawal from the WTA Finals Indian Wells just one day before the tournament was set to begin. With only eight players in the singles draw, the withdrawal of any competitor is a significant blow, but Rybakina’s absence is particularly disappointing. She was not only the top seed and defending champion but also the first player to qualify for this year’s edition.
The initial explanation for Rybakina’s withdrawal was given as “medical reasons,” which was soon clarified as a “viral illness.”
“Is everything okay?” the interviewer asked, noticing Rybakina’s difficulty concentrating. “If you want to stop, we can stop,” she offered.
“Yeah, please,” Rybakina replied.
“Are you okay?”
“No, not feeling well.”
Rybakina eventually left the interview, seemingly in a hurry and visibly struggling, giving the impression that she might be on the verge of vomiting or even collapsing.
It is clear that Rybakina tried her best to fulfill her media obligations despite feeling so unwell, but her body simply wouldn’t cooperate. It is heartbreaking that she won’t get the chance to defend her title at such a prestigious event, especially after being the first to secure her place in the field. Marta Kostyuk has stepped in to replace her.
All the best to Elena…Sending her positive energy! I hope she feels/gets better soon!