Australian Open champion Caroline Wozniacki has withdrawn from the Citi Open in Washington due to a right leg injury.
The world No.2 confirmed her withdrawal from the tournament on Tuesday ahead of her scheduled clash with Ukrainian qualifier Anhelina Kalinina. Wozniacki was set to start her US Open series campaign this week in the American capital. On Monday the Dane acknowledged that she was suffering with an issue, but played down its significance.
“It’s just something that has been nagging for a little while,” Wozniacki said. “Hopefully it will be fine.”
Wozniacki hasn’t commented about her decision, but her father and coach Peter has shed some light on the current situation. During an interview with Denmark’s TV Sport 2, he said that Wozniacki’s absence has been done to avoid the possibility of injuring her leg further.
“It’s necessary, because we do not dare take a risk with this tournament. It’s more important she gets 100% ready for the upcoming tournaments.” Pitor said.
According to the Danish media outlet, Wozniacki was told to rest after visiting a hospital in Washington. According to their sources, the worst case scenario could have resulted in her tearing a muscle in her leg. Something that could have forced her out of action for roughly six weeks.
The setback comes ahead of next week’s Rogers Cup, which is a WTA Premier 5 tournament. Wozniacki has a wealth of points to defend after reaching the final of the tournament last year before losing to Elina Svitolina.
Next month Wozniacki will be hoping to add to her grand slam title collection when she plays at the US Open. She has reached the final on two previous occasions back in 2009 and 2014. This year’s tournament will get underway on August 27th.
Replacing Wozniacki in the main draw at the Citi Open will be Ysaline Bonaventure of Belgium. Reigning US Open champion Sloane Stephens is the highest ranked player left in the tournament.
