Tennis

Elena Rybakina Confident of U.S. Open Participation Following Ankle Injury

  • Authored By: Sports Now
  • Updated Aug 31, 2026, 01:15 IST

World number two Elena Rybakina is optimistic about her fitness for the U.S. Open after recovering from an ankle injury that forced her to retire during the Cincinnati Open earlier this month.

Elena Rybakina Confident of U.S. Open Participation Following Ankle Injury

World number two Elena Rybakina has expressed confidence in her recovery as she prepares to compete at the upcoming U.S. Open. The 27-year-old, who is a two-time Grand Slam champion, is currently managing a leg injury that forced her to withdraw from her quarter-final match against Iga Swiatek at the Cincinnati Open on August 20.

Speaking to reporters at Flushing Meadows on Saturday, the Kazakhstani star confirmed that her rehabilitation is progressing as planned. While the initial days following the injury were difficult, with the player noting that even walking proved painful, she remains optimistic about her ability to take the court for the final Grand Slam of the season.

Focusing on a Full Recovery

Rybakina highlighted the importance of a measured approach to her training schedule as she navigates the final stages of her recovery. By carefully managing her practice sessions and monitoring her physical response, she believes she is making the right decisions to ensure she is ready for the rigors of tournament play.

Regarding her current status, Rybakina stated that she feels confident in the daily progress being made. She emphasized that while there is always a need to consider potential setbacks, the current trajectory of her recovery is positive. She noted that she only intends to compete when she is entirely certain of her physical readiness, acknowledging that the prestige of the U.S. Open makes it a priority for every player on the tour.

Preparing for the Opening Round

As the tournament approaches, Rybakina is looking ahead to her first-round match against American Thea Frodin. Despite the disruption caused by her withdrawal in Cincinnati, the world number two is hopeful that a few more days of preparation will be sufficient to reach full fitness.

The tennis community will be watching closely to see how the two-time Grand Slam winner performs as she aims to translate her recent recovery work into a successful campaign at Flushing Meadows. For now, the focus remains on maintaining her current momentum and ensuring she is prepared to compete at the highest level when her opening match arrives.