Iga Swiatek Refuses to Capitalize on Aryna Sabalenka’s US Open Hangover, Upsets Fans at Seoul Open
The WTA scheduling has been a hot topic of debate all season, with players voicing concerns over fatigue and stress. As the Seoul Open approaches, less than a week after the exhausting US Open, many players are opting out, choosing to prioritize their well-being over the demands of constant travel and competition. And now, joining the list of those stepping away is none other than World No. 1, Iga Swiatek.
Just a day ahead of the tournament, Swiatek announced that she would not be participating in the WTA 500 tournament, citing fatigue. She has joined the likes of top star players like Jessica Pegula and Elena Rybakina to pull out of the tournament, thereby giving a major setback and disappointment to the fans.
Sharing the news, an X user wrote, “Iga Swiatek is OUT of the Korea Open. Disaster for the tournament as all top-10 players have withdrawn in its first year as a 500.” These withdrawals have, however, allowed several other players to make a place for themselves.
Daria Kasatkina, Beatriz Haddad Maia, and Diana Shnaider are now among the top-seeded players in the tournament. The withdrawals have also helped the former US Open champions Sloane Stephens and Emma Raducanu who have moved into the main draw. However, tennis enthusiasts, and especially the fans of Iga Swiatek are not happy with the news.
As soon as the post gained traction, several other X users joined the fray to express similar disappointments and highlighted the negative aspects that Swiatek might face by withdrawing from the tournament. They also claimed that Swiatek might lose her World No. 1 position to Aryna Sabalenka now.
