Iga Sviontek announced her decision to withdraw from the Miami Open due to a rib injury.
World no.
ThisThe biotech said in a statement on Wednesday (March 22) that it is trying to treat the injury sustained at last month’s Doha tournament. The number 1 was scheduled to make her debut in Florida on Thursday (March 23) against the American Claire Liu in the second round (she had a bye from the first round).
“I’ve been fighting a strong infection since Doha,” said the Pole. “The medical team cleared me to play, but a severe coughing fit resulted in a rib injury. We tried to deal with it and I kept playing while it was still safe for me. But we analyzed the data in the last few days and the doctor made the diagnosis. Unfortunately, I am still unwell and in pain and will not be able to compete.”
“I will keep you updated on where I will be racing next as it depends on my recovery process and the guidance of my medical team. I have the best team behind me, we need some time to get over the injury. It’s really hard not to play in Miami, but also in the Billi Jean King Cup, but health is the most important thing.”
“I’m grateful that this is the first health issue I’ve had in a long time and that I’ve been able to be in great shape, but that’s sport. It happens sometimes, we can’t control it. We have to accept it and come back healthy as soon as possible.”
Sfiodek, who won the title without dropping a set last year, will be replaced by lucky loser Julia Graber.
