Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina has withdrawn from the Eastbourne International. It is a warm-up event for Wimbledon. She cited a viral illness as the reason for her withdrawal.
Rybakina, ranked world No. 3, was scheduled to play against Alison Riske in the first round of the Eastbourne International on Monday. However, she withdrew from the tournament on Sunday night.
This year, it is the second time Rybakina has withdrawn from a tournament due to illness. In May, she also withdrew from the French Open because of a stomach virus.
Rybakina’s withdrawal is a blow to her Wimbledon title defense. She will now head to Wimbledon having played just two grass matches this season.
The 23-year-old Rybakina is a powerful hitter from the baseline. She won her first Grand Slam title at Wimbledon last year, defeating Ons Jabeur in the final.
Rybakina is considered one of the favorites to win Wimbledon again this year. However, her illness and lack of match play could make her title defense more difficult.
It is uncertain whether Rybakina will be fit to play in Wimbledon. She will need to recover from her illness and get some match play in the next few days if she wants to be at her best for the tournament.
Wimbledon starts on June 27.
