Aryna Sabalenkova has admitted she may never return to the Dubai Tennis Championships after she was infuriated by fierce criticism over her withdrawal last month.
The world number one, along with Iga Swiatek, was among several high-profile players to withdraw due to injury, illness or scheduling issues, forcing lucky losers into the main draw and reducing the appeal of the WTA 1000 tournament.
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Sabalenkova cited a minor hip injury as the reason for her withdrawal before regional tensions escalated further during the US-Israel war with Iran.
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However, Dubai tournament director Salah Tahlak’s comments appear to have angered the Belarusian star, as the official said the players should face harsher penalties than just fines and even have their ranking points deducted.
‘HIS COMMENTS WERE RIDICULOUS’
Sabalenka called the tournament director’s statements ridiculous and said that he did not handle the situation well. She expressed disappointment that tournament organizers are not doing enough to protect players, accusing them of being more interested in ticket sales and the event itself.
“I think it’s ridiculous. I don’t think he showed himself in the best possible way. For me, it’s actually so sad to see that the tournament and tournament directors don’t protect us as players. They only care about their (sales), their tournament and that’s it,” Sabalenka told reporters.
“His comment was ridiculous. I’m not sure if I ever want to go there after his comment. It’s too much for me,” Sabalenka added.
WTA regulations mandate that the top players participate in all four Grand Slams, 10 WTA 1000 events and six WTA 500 events, with violations punishable by a fine or point penalty.
Sabalenka said she and her team decided before the season to take a more selective approach to her schedule, focusing more on protecting her health and creating short breaks to recover, recharge and better prepare for the biggest tournaments.
Sabalenkova recently had reason to celebrate after winning the Indian Wells title, defeating Elena Rybakina in the final. It was her first win over Rybakina in a final after four straight defeats, including one at the Australian Open earlier this year.
Sabalenkova will now focus on defending her Miami Open crown, which she won last year by defeating Jessica Pegula in the final.
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Issued by:
sabyasachi chowdhury
Published on:
18 March 2026 16:50 IST
