23-Year-Old Defending Champion Elena Rybakina Delves Further Into Virus Scare That Derailed Her Wimbledon Plans After Abrupt French Open Withdrawal

Elena Rybakina, the world No. 3 tennis player, recently faced a significant setback in her professional career when she was forced to withdraw from the 2021 French Open due to contracting the COVID-19 virus. The talented Kazakhstani player, who has been making a name for herself on the global tennis stage, expressed her disappointment and frustration at missing one of the most prestigious tournaments in the sport.

As the pandemic continues to impact the world of professional tennis, Rybakina’s experience serves as a stark reminder of the challenges and uncertainties faced by athletes in these unprecedented times.

Elena Rybakina shares how she was stuck in a hotel for days due to the virus

Upon receiving a positive COVID-19 test result, Rybakina was required to follow strict isolation protocols to prevent the spread of the virus. This meant that she was confined to her hotel room for several days, unable to practice or prepare for the French Open as she had initially planned.

As the virus took its toll on her health, Rybakina found herself not only battling physical symptoms but also facing the mental strain of isolation and the knowledge that her tournament hopes were slipping away.

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In an interview with the Express, she said, “At the French Open after I withdrew I went back to the hotel and it was even worse so I had to stay in Paris for a few days not leaving the room.” It was surely not what she had expected to happen at the French Open, as she had to withdraw even after spending so much time preparing for the tournament.

Rybakina talks about preparing for Wimbledon even after her virus scare experience

In the interview with the Express, Rybakina also talked about how after one week of recovering from the virus, she started preparing again and practicing for other tournaments. She still felt weak and not in her best physical condition. But she continued to play matches and practice.

This way she was able to prepare for the Wimbledon tournament. She also added that as of now as well she is not 100% sure about her health, but she will be doing her best.

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