Defending champion Swiatek out of Miami with rib injury: “I can’t compete”

Defending champion and world No 1 Iga Swiatek has withdrawn from the Miami Open due to a rib injury.

The Pole was set to play American Claire Liu in the second round on Thursday after receiving a first-round bye – but said in a statement that she had been struggling with the problem since her illness in Doha.

“You know that in and after Doha I was struggling with a strong infection,” Swiatek said. “I was allowed to play, but a strong episode of tough cough led to a rib injury. We were trying to handle it and continue to play as long as it was safe for me. We were analysing the data in the last days and my doctor prepared my diagnosis.

“Unfortunately, I’m still feeling a lot of discomfort and pain and I can’t compete.”

She had already said in a social media post following her defeat in the Indian Wells semi-final: “Unfortunately I’m feeling discomfort and pain in my ribs and it was challenging for me to compete at my highest level.”

Swiatek will also miss the forthcoming round of Billie Jean King Cup matches on April 14 and 15.

Lucky loser Julia Grabher takes her place in the Miami draw.

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