World No. 2 Elena Rybakina will miss Kazakhstan's Billie Jean King Cup qualifier against Canada on April 10-11 in Astana. Team captain Yuriy Schukin described the decision as a joint one with the tennis federation to prioritize her chance at the top ranking amid a tight schedule. Canada also faces absences, including World No. 9 Victoria Mboko due to dental issues.
Elena Rybakina, fresh off her Australian Open title and Indian Wells final this year, has opted out of Kazakhstan's crucial Billie Jean King Cup qualifier. The match, set for April 10-11 at Beeline Arena in Astana on clay, will determine direct entry to the competition's final stage. Kazakhstan captain Yuriy Schukin explained the move as necessary given Rybakina's position just behind No. 1 and her packed calendar ahead of the clay season. He noted it helps avoid injury risks during a pivotal time for her career and the country. Schukin called it a joint decision with the tennis federation, not solely Rybakina's choice. Quote: “With such a tight schedule, she has to sacrifice some tournaments somewhere, even such as the Billie Jean King Cup... This is a historic moment.” Kazakhstan's top player now is World No. 74 Yulia Putintseva, joined by Zhibek Kulambayeva, Aruzhan Sagandykova, Sonja Zhiyenbayeva, and Anna Danilina. Canada, captained by Marie-Eve Pelletier, lists World No. 130 Bianca Andreescu as its highest-ranked player, with Kayla Cross, Ariana Arseneault, and Alexandra Vagramov. The team has lost World No. 9 Victoria Mboko, who cited recurring dental pain requiring wisdom teeth removal. Mboko said: “I am very sorry to have to withdraw... There is no greater privilege than playing for and representing Canada.” Marina Stakusic withdrew earlier due to a back injury, stating: “My body is not at 100 per cent.” Gabriela Dabrowski also pulled out.