Miami Open: Defending champion Iga Swiatek pulls out with injury

Defending champion Iga Swiatek has withdrawn from the Miami Open after “feeling a lot of discomfort” on account of a rib injury.

The world primary was on account of play American Claire Liu within the second spherical of the event on Thursday after receiving a bye.

However, Swiatek revealed in an announcement on social media that she had been struggling with a rib challenge sustained throughout final month’s Qatar Open, which she went on to win.

The Pole confirmed that she’s going to take a break, which means she can also be set to overlook the upcoming Billie Jean King Cup in April.

She stated: “You know that in and after Doha I used to be struggling with a robust an infection. I used to be allowed to play, however a robust episode of robust cough led to a rib injury.

“We had been making an attempt to deal with it and proceed to play so long as it was protected for me. We had been analysing the info within the final days and my physician ready my prognosis.

“Unfortunately, I’m nonetheless feeling plenty of discomfort and ache and I can’t compete.

“I must take a break to recuperate and I’ve to drag out of the Miami Open and Billie Jean King Cup.

“I’ll hold you up to date about the place I play subsequent, as a result of it will depend on my technique of recovering and the advice of my medical staff. I’ve the perfect staff behind me, we solely want a while to deal with the injury.

“It’s a truly difficult call to not play in Miami and BJKC, but health is the most important.

“I’m grateful this is the first health issue in a long time and I was able to compete in perfect shape for so long, but that’s sports, it happens sometimes, without our control.

“Time to accept it and get well as soon as possible.”

Swiatek’s withdrawal implies that Julia Grabher will take her place in Miami.