Overview
- World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka withdrew citing a right hip issue and Iga Swiatek pulled out due to a schedule change, triggering organizer outrage over the late timing.
- Reuters reports the field has thinned further, with Victoria Mboko the latest to withdraw and seven lucky losers drafted into a reshaped main draw alongside earlier exits by Maria Sakkari, Zheng Qinwen, Karolina Muchova and Elisabetta Cocciaretto.
- Tahlak argues fines are insufficient and has floated docking 500–1,000 ranking points for last‑minute pullouts, saying he will raise the idea at a forthcoming WTA meeting in Rome.
- Under current WTA rules, mandatory 1000‑level absences can bring fines and a ‘zero‑pointer,’ with up to three schedule‑change withdrawals allowed without a fine; the WTA says athlete welfare remains a top priority and the tour structure is under review.
- Coco Gauff publicly opposed point deductions, warning of burnout, while the tournament has seen additional disruption with multiple walkovers and retirements reported, including Daria Kasatkina, Sara Bejlek and Barbora Krejcikova, and seedings adjusted after top withdrawals.