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Wuhan Open Loses Rybakina and Gauff as Withdrawals Pile Up

The Wuhan Open has seen a wave of withdrawals that reshapes the tournament’s landscape, with world No. 1 Elena Rybakina and defending champion Coco Gauff among the high-profile absences.

Rybakina, who recently won the US Open and climbed to the top of the rankings, pulled out due to a persistent lower-leg and foot injury that has plagued her since August, forcing her to skip both the China Open and Billie Jean King Cup Finals. Her exit leaves Aryna Sabalenka as the top seed, while Liudmila Samsonova steps into Rybakina’s spot in the draw.

Meanwhile, Gauff cited the need for rest after a grueling season, ending her Asian swing early and forfeiting 1,000 ranking points from her 2023 Wuhan title. With over 11 players withdrawing—including eight from the world’s top 25—the field now appears far more unpredictable than initially expected, offering fresh opportunities for lower-ranked competitors.

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