Sabalenka Slams ‘Ridiculous’ Dubai Withdrawal Criticism

World number one Aryna Sabalenka has branded criticism of her late withdrawal from last month’s Dubai Championships as “ridiculous” and hinted she may boycott the tournament in the future.

Sabalenka, alongside then-world number two Iga Swiatek, pulled out of the WTA 1000 event on 13th February, just two days before its commencement. Tournament director Salah Tahlak subsequently suggested both players should face ranking point deductions.

“I don’t think he showed himself in the best way possible,” stated four-time Grand Slam champion Sabalenka. “It’s actually so sad to see that the tournament directors and the tournaments are not protecting us as players. They just care about their [sales], about their tournament and that’s it.”

The Belarusian, who recently secured the Indian Wells title, added: “I’m not sure if I ever want to go there after his comment. For me it’s too much.”

Sabalenka explained her decision to prioritise health this season, creating “little gaps in the schedule where I can reset, recharge, work and be better prepared for bigger tournaments.” She highlighted the “crazy” scheduling as a cause for numerous player injuries.

American two-time Grand Slam champion Coco Gauff echoed Sabalenka’s sentiments, stating: “Iga and Aryna have played that tournament so many times and it wasn’t anything personal to it. I completely understand why she would feel like that because the comments were unnecessary.”

Concerns about the packed tennis calendar, which spans 11 months for top players, are frequently raised by athletes.

Meanwhile, British number three Katie Boulter commenced her Miami Open campaign with a 7-6 (11-9) 6-4 victory over Spain’s Jessica Bouzas Maneiro in the first round. Boulter, who recently won the Ostrava Open and has climbed to 67th in the rankings, saved six set points in a hard-fought first set tie-break.

“I know how good a player she is and the level and quality of our tennis tonight was good,” said Boulter. “It was difficult. I felt like I was having to hit a winner or she was going to hit one.”

Boulter is set to face Danish world number 16 Clara Tauson in the second round on Thursday.