A grand showdown in Doha was what fans wanted, and that is what they got with an Elena Rybakina – Iga Swiatek tie at WTA Doha 2024 finals. However, through the tie, the play came to a halt as Elena Rybakina suffered a big blow, one that left her bleeding.

As Rybakina served, her racquet hit her leg, resulting in a cut appearing on her shin. While she did not seem to notice it initially, reaching for another ball to continue the serve. A medical timeout was soon called, with Elena Rybakina quickly receiving medical attention.

Even though the gash does appear to be contained, one certainly hopes it does not impact her performance against a world-class player like Iga Swiatek, especially since Rybakina’s impressive performance sees her put up a strong fight at the WTA Doha 2024 final.

Gritty Elena Rybakina braves her wound to take the fight to Swiatek in the WTA Doha 2024 finals

While the wound looks small, Rybakina might just have lingering pain in the shin region. Fans hope to see her continue the fight, and so she appears to be doing. Despite looking shaky initially, it seems Rybakina regained her footing.

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The first set went to a tie-break, one which Swiatek managed to swing in her favor. However, do not count Rybakina out yet. Her intensity not just in the current tie, but all throughout WTA Doha 2024 has been a big positive. Just the way she has been striking the ball in this final has heads turning. Having to feel the pain of her racquet hitting her leg must have been more painful than the WTA star let on.

Following Doha, both Rybakina and Swiatek will pack their bags and head to Dubai. With the WTA Dubai 2024 starting on February 18th, both have their hands full. Fortunately, Rybakina and Swiatek both have byes in the first round, meaning some respite after this grueling final tie.

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