Svitolina Withdraws From Cincinnati Masters Shortly Before Clash With Wozniacki

Elina Svitolina withdrew from the 2023 Cincinnati Masters shortly before her first-round match against Caroline Wozniacki.

It should have been a match of two mothers at the WTA 1000 tournament in Cincinnati, also called the Western & Southern Open, but that won’t be happening as the 28-year-old Ukrainian is unable to compete due to an injury that started already at Wimbledon.

Only a few weeks ago, Svitolina had an incredible semifinal run at Wimbledon, but it seems that it wasn’t without picking up a minor foot injury. Although she then participated at the event in Washington, losing to Jessica Pegula in the quarterfinals, the Montreal campaign was even less successful.

Already in her first match in Montreal, Svitolina lost to Danielle Collins, and it was obvious that she wasn’t at her best. Now, we know why as the Ukrainian withdrew from the 2023 Cincinnati Masters, citing a foot pain.

“Unfortunately I have been experiencing some foot pain since Wimbledon and I was advised to have a scan after Montreal which has shown some issues that need addressing and resting, so I am unable to play in Cincinnati this year.”

“I am really disappointed to pull out anywhere but I love the fans in Cincy and love playing in front of them which makes it extra hard but I have to take the medical advice I have been given. I will do my best to rest and recover in time for the US Open now. Thank you for your understanding.”

It should have been a real blockbuster in the first round against Caroline Wozniacki, but now, the Danish player will play against lucky loser Varvara Gracheva. After winning her first match in 1295 days in Montreal, Wozniacki will want to record another win in Cincinnati. On the other hand, Svitolina will want to focus on the upcoming US Open and recover in time for that.