There is an outstanding entry list for the WTA 500 event in Berlin, which starts on Monday. US Open champion Coco Gauff and 2022 Wimbledon winner Elena Rybakina are among several top players set to compete in Germany. However, three players have elected to withdraw from the Berlin Open, including one very big name in the sport. This article lists those who have withdrawn and then gives their three replacements in the draw.
Three Players Withdraw From WTA Berlin Open
Which Players Have Withdrawn?
Iga Swiatek was the first player to withdraw from the WTA Berlin Open. This is not a major surprise. After winning her fourth French Open title, the world #1 has decided she needs some extra rest. She is not scheduled to play in any of the tournaments the following week either, meaning the Pole looks set to play at Wimbledon without competing in any warmup events.
Jasmine Paolini was the second player to withdraw from the WTA Berlin Open. Her reason is the same as Swiatek’s. She was the runner-up in the singles and doubles at the French Open. The Italian cited mental and physical fatigue as the reason for her withdrawal. Paolini made a name for herself at Roland-Garros and the fans in Germany will be disappointed not to see her in action.
Anastasia Pavlyychenkova was the final player to withdraw from the WTA Berlin Open. This is due to a continuing wrist injury. The Russian played at the French Open but it appears she was doing that while managing the issue with her wrist. It is not currently known how severe the injury is or when she will return to the court.
Who Replaces Those Players In The Draw?
Anna Kalinskaya benefits from Swiatek’s decision to withdraw from the WTA Berlin Open. She showed her immense talent earlier in the season by reaching the final of the WTA 1000 event in Dubai. Her powerful serve and flat shots make her a big threat on grass if she finds her range.
Emma Navarro replaces Paolini at the WTA 500 event. The American has enjoyed an excellent season so far. This includes winning her maiden title in Hobart and progressing to the fourth-round of a Grand Slam for the first time at the French Open. She will hope to build on that momentum on grass.
Finally, Linda Noskova enters the Berlin Open due to Pavlyuchenkova withdrawing. The 19-year-old has struggled for consistency since making it to the quarterfinal of the Australian Open at the start of the year. However, her powerful game is also very dangerous on grass if she finds some form.
Main photo credit: Danielle Parhizkaran-USA TODAY Sports
