Swiatek withdraws from Ningbo, ending direct Finals route

Iga Swiatek withdrew from the Ningbo Open on October 20, ending her chance to qualify directly for the 2026 WTA Finals through the tournament. She said the decision was prompted by an ongoing problem with her left thigh and was intended to give her time to rest and recover. The withdrawal closed Swiatek’s remaining direct route to the eight-player season-ending championship. Before Ningbo, she was competing with Karolina Muchova and Marta Kostyuk for the final qualifying place. Swiatek would have needed a strong result in China to improve her standing, but can no longer earn points there. Her possible participation at the Finals is not settled. She could appear as an alternate if a place becomes available and she is eligible, but neither her availability nor an alternate entry has been confirmed. The Finals are scheduled for November 8-15 in Indian Wells, California. Swiatek’s thigh problem had affected her during the Wuhan Open semifinal the previous week. She lost to compatriot Maja Chwalinska in straight sets, 7-5, 6-1. Accounts of the match said Swiatek struggled with movement and received a medical timeout; the injury description in her withdrawal statement was her own...