Jessica Pegula has decided to end her WTA Finals early after withdrawing from the competition due to injury.
Pegula played at the Wuhan Open ahead of the year-end tournament in Riyadh, where she suffered a disappointing last 16 exit.
The American also lost in the last 16 of the China Open, which came after she enjoyed superb runs at the Cincinnati Open and US Open.
Pegula reached the finals of both WTA Tour events, but frustratingly lost out to Aryna Sabalenka on both occasions.
She did, however, win the Canadian Open, with her superb form helping her secure a spot in the WTA Finals.
Jessica Pegula sends apology after WTA Finals withdrawal
But Pegula lost her WTA Finals opener to Coco Gauff, with the former then losing to Barbora Krejcikova in her second group match.
And that was as far as she went in Saudi Arabia, with Pegula withdrawing from the event with a left knee injury.
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She has now shared an update on social media, writing on X: “What started as a really small issue flared over the last two matches and I just can’t continue tomorrow.
“I’m sorry to the fans and tournament. I really had a great week of prep and had high hopes here but it just wasn’t meant to be. Thank you for the warm welcome Riyadh.”
Daria Kasatkina replaces Jessica Pegula at the WTA Finals
Pegula had been drawn to face Iga Swiatek in her final group game at the WTA Finals, with the new world number two needing to win to reach the next stage.
But the American has now been replaced by alternate Daria Kasatkina, who currently sits ninth in the WTA rankings.
Pegula occupies sixth spot thanks to her superb season, which is now likely over given her current injury issue.
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Her fellow American Danielle Collins is another alternate in Riyadh, with the 30-year-old 10th in the world rankings at this stage of the season.
Another compatriot in Coco Gauff is shining brightly at the tournament, having earned early access to the semi-finals alongside Sabalenka.
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