Dubai – Elena Rybakina’s campaign at the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships came to an abrupt end on Thursday as the Kazakhstani player was forced to retire due to a gastrointestinal illness, paving the way for lucky loser Antonia Ruzic to advance. The unexpected turn of events adds another layer to a tournament already significantly impacted by withdrawals, including top-ranked players Aryna Sabalenka and Iga Swiatek.
Ruzic, a 23-year-vintage, capitalized on the opportunity, continuing a remarkable run through the tournament. She initially qualified for the main draw after winning through deciding sets against Emma Raducanu and Anastasia Zakharova, overcoming Rebecca Sramkova in the opening round of qualifying. The tournament has seen a total of ten withdrawals, resulting in a record number of seven lucky losers gaining entry into the competition.
The unexpected retirements and upsets haven’t stopped at the top of the draw. Defending champion Mirra Andreeva secured her place in the last-eight, defeating Jaqueline Cristian 7-5, 6-3. She will now face second-seeded Amanda Anisimova, who was victorious over Janice Tjen with a score of 6-1, 6-3. Anisimova holds a prior win against her upcoming opponent, having defeated Andreeva in the third round of the 2025 Miami Open.
Elsewhere in the tournament, Jessica Pegula continued her strong form, defeating Iva Jovic 6-4, 6-2, to achieve her 10th win in 12 contests this season. Pegula will next face Clara Tauson, last year’s runner-up, who secured a 6-4, 6-2 victory against Magda Linette.
Ruzic’s Unexpected Path to the Quarterfinals
Antonia Ruzic’s journey to the quarterfinals is a testament to perseverance. Having initially fallen in the qualifying rounds, her inclusion as a lucky loser presented a chance she seized with both hands. Her victories over Raducanu and Zakharova demonstrated her ability to compete at a high level, and now she finds herself in a favorable position to potentially make a deeper run in the tournament.
Top Players Sidelined
The Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships have been significantly altered by the absence of several key players. The withdrawals of world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka, and No. 2 Iga Swiatek have reshaped the competitive landscape, creating opportunities for other contenders. According to WTA rankings as of February 19, 2026, Sabalenka leads with 10,541 points, although Swiatek trails with 7,470 points Sportskeeda. The reasons for the withdrawals vary, but the impact on the tournament’s overall dynamic is undeniable.
Andreeva and Anisimova Set for Clash
The upcoming match between Mirra Andreeva and Amanda Anisimova promises to be a compelling contest. Anisimova will be looking to replicate her success from the 2025 Miami Open, where she defeated Andreeva in their only previous encounter. Andreeva, though, will be motivated to defend her title and prove her dominance on the Dubai hard courts.
The Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships continue to deliver unexpected twists and turns. With several top players sidelined and a new generation of talent emerging, the tournament is poised for a thrilling conclusion. Fans can expect further competitive matches as players vie for a place in the semifinals and beyond.
The remaining rounds of the tournament will undoubtedly provide further insight into the current state of the WTA tour. The performances of players like Ruzic, Pegula, and Tauson will be closely watched as they navigate the challenges ahead. Stay tuned for further updates as the tournament progresses.
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