Iga Swiatek ends 2026 season prematurely to 'fully recover' from injuries

The six-time Grand Slam winner confirmed her decision on Instagram after pulling out of the Ningbo Open with a left thigh injury. The withdrawal also ended the ninth-ranked Pole's chances of qualifying for the WTA Finals.

Swiatek had struggled with the same issue during the Wuhan Open, where she suffered a 7-5, 6-1 semifinal defeat against compatriot Maja Chwalinska.

She had led 5-3 in the opening set before the injury affected her movement, requiring medical attention. Despite playing with her thigh bandaged, she could not prevent Chwalinska from progressing to the title.

Reflecting on her decision, Swiatek admitted that recent seasons had taken a considerable toll on her physically and mentally. However, she remained satisfied with aspects of her development during the second half of the year.

"I've been experiencing an ongoing problem with my left thigh over the past weeks," Swiatek said.

"This has been one of the most demanding seasons of my career, with a lot of challenges, changes and lessons along the way."

"I feel I need to rest and recover my body fully," she added.

"We have to be smart about it. The scheduling is super intense. It's too intense."

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