Elena Rybakina relives withdrawal horrors as she pulls out of US Open 2024 moments before 2R encounter

Elena Rybakina has pulled out of the 2024 US Open, adding to a series of withdrawals this year. The Kazakh withdrew just moments before her scheduled second-round match on August 30.

Rybakina entered New York after an early exit at the Cincinnati Masters, where she lost in the first round to Leylah Fernandez. Despite not being in her best form leading up to the final Grand Slam of the year, she started strong with a 6-1, 7-6(1) victory over Destanee Aiava in the first round.

The former Wimbledon champion was scheduled to face Jessika Ponchet in the second round but withdrew before the match, giving the Frenchwoman a free pass to the next round.

Elena Rybakina later issued a statement explaining that she had to withdraw due to injuries, though she didn't specify the details. She expressed her disappointment, saying that while she had hoped for a different outcome at the US Open, the decision was necessary for her well-being.

"Unfortunately, I have to withdraw from my match today due to my injuries," she said (via WTA's official site). "I did not want to finish the last Grand Slam of the year this way, but I have to listen to my body, and I hope I can close out the remainder of the year strong."

"Thank you to all the fans who have and continue to support me, and I wish the remaining players good luck," she added.

This is Rybakina's eighth time pulling out of a tournament this season, either before the event or mid-match. She previously did so at the Dubai Tennis Championships, Indian Wells, Italian Open, Berlin Open, Eastbourne International, Paris Olympics and the Canadian Open.

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Elena Rybakina split with long-term coach Stefano Vukov before US Open 2024 campaign

Stefano Vukov (L) pictured with Elena Rybakina | Image Source: Getty

Elena Rybakina ended her partnership with long-time coach Stefano Vukov just days before starting her campaign at the 2024 US Open. She announced the news via Instagram Stories, writing:

"Hello Everyone, After 5 years, Stefano and I are no longer working together," the Kazakh wrote.

"I thank him for his work on-court and wish him all the best for the future. Thank you for all your support," she added.

Rybakina and Vukov shared a successful partnership, with the veteran coach playing a key role in her maiden Grand Slam win at the 2022 Wimbledon Championships, along with several other notable achievements.

However, their relationship was frequently marred by controversy, largely due to Vukov's aggressive behavior during Rybakina's matches. The reason for their split remains unclear, as the World No. 4 remained tight-lipped about it during a press conference at Flushing Meadows after her first-round win.

Elena Rybakina is now working with Yuri Schukin, who is also the head coach of the Kazakhstan Davis Cup Team.