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Top Tennis Stars Sabalenka and Swiatek Withdraw from Dubai Championships

2/14/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Aryna Sabalenka, the World No. 1, withdrew from the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships due to the need for a lighter schedule.
Iga Swiatek, the World No. 2, also withdrew, noting the calendar of four Grand Slams and ten WTA 1000 events makes it impossible to manage.
They plan to return for the BNP Paribas Open in March.

History

Historical Context

In 1982, the ATP implemented a new ranking system that required players to compete in more tournaments, intensifying the demands on athletes like John McEnroe and Björn Borg. This shift has led to ongoing scheduling challenges, as seen in the recent withdrawals of Aryna Sabalenka and Iga Swiatek from the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships, highlighting the need for more player-friendly scheduling in professional tennis.

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Story summary

Aryna Sabalenka, the World No. 1, withdrew from the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships due to the need for a lighter schedule.
Iga Swiatek, the World No. 2, also withdrew, noting the calendar of four Grand Slams and ten WTA 1000 events makes it impossible to manage.
They plan to return for the BNP Paribas Open in March.

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