Full Breakdown
Elena Rybakina Targets US Open Return After Cincinnati Ankle Injury
8/30/2026, 2:03:11 AM
Core Event
World No. 2 Elena Rybakina, the 27-year-old two-time Grand Slam champion from Kazakhstan, announced on August 29 that she is on track to compete at the U.S. Open. The statement follows her retirement in the first set of the Cincinnati Open quarter-final against Iga Swiatek on August 20 due to an ankle injury. Rybakina is slated to open the tournament against American Thea Frodin.
Background & Context
Rybakina entered Cincinnati as a top contender but was forced to withdraw after experiencing pain while walking for several days post-match. The injury was described as a leg/ankle problem that required a brief period of rest and modified practice.
Official Statements & Responses
Speaking to reporters at Flushing Meadows, Rybakina said she feels “quite confident” about the daily decisions regarding practice and recovery, emphasizing that she will only return to competition when she is fully certain of her fitness. She noted that the U.S. Open is the final Grand Slam of the year, implying that most players will aim to compete despite recent injuries.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I’m quite confident with the decision we are making each day how to practise, what to do, and especially what can happen worst-case scenario. So all these things I feel quite confident,” — Elena Rybakina
- “I’m quite confident with the decision we are making each day how to practise, what to do, and especially what can happen worst-case scenario. So all these things I feel quite confident,” — Elena Rybakina
What’s Next
Rybakina’s first match at the U.S. Open is scheduled against Thea Frodin. She indicated that the next few days will determine her readiness, but expressed optimism that she will be “very fine” in time for the tournament’s start.
