Iga Swiatek reveals rib injury after demolition loss against Elena Rybakina

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Iga Swiatek revealed she was hampered by a rib issue during her Indian Wells semifinal match but also acknowledged that Elena Rybakina delivered "a great level of tennis." On Friday, Swiatek's chances of defending the Indian Wells title came to an end after Rybakina handed the Pole a 6-2 6-2 semifinal defeat.

"Well, for sure, Elena played great tennis today, and I feel like against her I have to play better. She was playing really well. I’m pretty sad that I lost, but on the other hand, overall, it’s a pretty good tournament for me," Swiatek said.

Swiatek reveals a rib injury

After easily losing to Rybakina, Swiatek claimed she was battling a rib issue during the match. "Well, I don’t know if it’s like, honestly — I feel like it’s still more me and kind of my mistakes.

I’m also like not feeling 100% physically. I have a little like discomfort in my rib, and we’re going to consult with medical team. For sure I’m gonna use these days off before Miami, so actually I have one more day," Swiatek said.

When asked directly if her Miami participation was in doubt, Swiatek said she is planning to play there. "No, like for now I’m preparing to play, but we’ll see what next days are going to tell us. I don’t know yet," Swiatek said.

Last year, Swiatek captured her first Indian Wells title after beating Maria Sakkari in the final. This year, Swiatek clinched four straight-set wins in Indian Wells before losing to Rybakina. Swiatek's campaign in Indian Wells looked promising but the Pole was then stopped by Rybakina.

Now, Swiatek will turn her focus on Miami, where she also made it all the way for the first time last year. If Swiatek plays and is healthy, she will be among the top favorites for the Miami title.