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World No. 1 Iga Svyatek blamed her loss against Elena Rybakina on her own mistakes and stress.
Rabakina leads the head-to-head series 2-1 over Sweetak, and this certainly won’t be the last time the two women lock horns.
The Kazakh No. 1 currently has Sviatek’s number, and is riding high on the confidence of beating a top-ranked woman.
Swiatek’s thinking may not be so good, as she believes she needs to check for possible rib damage.
Speaking after the defeat, Iga Svitek said: “Honestly, I still feel more like me and like my mistakes.” I also feel like I’m not feeling 100 percent physically. I have some discomfort in my ribs, and we will consult with the medical team. I’ll definitely use these days before Miami…actually, I have one more day.
Swiatek says she doesn’t want to push herself to play because of an injury that puts her participation in the Miami Open in doubt.
“I really didn’t play because I had a lot of injuries.
“It’s definitely a new situation for me.
“The last time I played with an injury, the only tournament was like Roland Garros 2019. So I was very young. Now it’s a completely different level. So I feel like you have to be 100 percent fit to go into those matches.
Swiatek said she was disappointed to miss out on a second straight Indian Wells final, but felt it was a good week all things considered.
The World No. 1 gives her second major win to her rival.
At the Australian Open and Indian Wells, Rybakina became only the second woman to win the world No. 1 ranking.
“Obviously, Elena played good tennis today, and I feel like I have to play better against her,” said Iga Sviatek.
“She was playing really well. I’m very disappointed to lose, but on the other hand it’s a good race for me overall.
As the top seed in Miami, Swiatek leads the 32-seed that will enjoy a bye into the second round, meaning she will have that extra day to recover before taking the next step.
Miami Open qualifiers begin on Sunday, March 19, with the main draw ending on Monday, March 20, 2023.
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