Swiatek Into Cincinnati Semis After Rybakina Injury

World number one Iga Swiatek has reached the semi-finals of the Cincinnati Masters following an injury withdrawal by her opponent, Elena Rybakina. Rybakina was forced to retire less than 30 minutes into their quarter-final match on Thursday due to a heel injury.

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I was feeling anxious watching the whole situation. I hope she will be fine. Health is always the priority.

Rybakina's sudden withdrawal has cast doubt on her readiness for the US Open, which begins in New York in just 10 days. Trailing 4-1 in the first set, Rybakina experienced pain and consulted with a trainer before ultimately deciding to quit the match. Swiatek expressed concern for her opponent's health, stating, "Health is always the priority."

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This is an important tournament, but the US Open is the US Open. I hope she is ready for that.

Swiatek, who recently defeated Rybakina in the Toronto final, expressed confidence in her own game, noting she has "gained a lot of confidence in the last weeks." She will face Jessica Pegula in the semi-finals. Pegula advanced after a challenging three-set victory over Amanda Anisimova, despite reportedly dealing with a hip niggle herself. In the men's draw, Flavio Cobolli also secured a spot in the final four.

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It was a shame she was injured, we were having a good match.