The most anticipated time of the year is almost here. Top-ranked ATP and WTA stars from all across the world are currently testing the dynamics at Flushing Meadows. Amid countless discussions of a confusing pace at the US Open courts, who would even think of missing the practice sessions? Well, Elena Rybakina is one name that fits the situation. While the tennis community was still in shock after her recent coach split update, the Kazakh continues her trail of concerning decisions.

The practice schedules for the date were shared officially in the morning. While other players like Mirra Andreeva and Matteo Berrettini cherished their slots and stepped on Count P3 to test their levels, Rybakina decided to ditch the opportunity. According to an active journalist, the Kazakh was locked in to start her practice session from 4:00 PM ET. However, she didn’t step into the court, instead seeking a better one.

Soon after her notable absence from the practice session, Rybakina’s name surprisingly popped out in the list of players to hit the balls on Arthur Ashe Stadium. The list also didn’t include the name of a co-player to practice alongside her, dropping hints of a closed practice. As this series of events cracked open, it reminded fans of a troublesome situation that the Kazakh currently stands in.

Despite having a balanced season so far, Rybakina shockingly decided to part ways with her long-time coach Stefano Vukov. “Hello everyone, after five years Stefano and I are no longer working together. I thank him for his work on-court and wish him all the best for the future. Thank you all for the support,” she posted. This update emerged days before her entry at the US Open and was quick enough to cover the expectations of fans with dark clouds of concern.

Besides countless doubts surrounding her scope in the ongoing tournament, the recently revealed draws emerged as another aspect to be worried about.

Elena Rybakina’s US Open draw resembles a track full of hurdles

The world No. 4 WTA star Elena Rybakina is aiming for her second Grand Slam title after winning Wimbledon in 2022. Although history has never seen her advance past the round of 32 at the US Open, she hopes to change her luck this year. Soon after her opening round match against a qualifier, Rybakina will have to battle past the Olympic gold medalist Qinwen Zheng. Although the Chinese wasn’t really able to make her mark at the Cincinnati Masters, she looks to make a comeback in the ongoing tournament.

Moving ahead on her path, the WTA star could encounter intense showdowns against Anna Kalinskaya in the fourth round, followed by a dangerous QF clash against the French Open finalist Jasmine Paolini. Even if she manages to get past the Italian, challenges still wait for her in the form of Iga Swiatek or Jessica Pegula as her projected semi-final rivals. As multiple concerns surround her entry at the US Open, it is clear that the odds do not favor the Kazakh this time.