Key Players Pull Out of Dubai Competition

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates — Several prominent players will be absent from the 2026 Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships. Zheng Qinwen and Maria Sakkari have withdrawn due to illness, while Karolina Muchova is citing fatigue.

Muchova’s Withdrawal Follows Recent Triumph

Muchova’s decision comes on the heels of a significant victory at the Qatar TotalEnergies Open, where she secured her first WTA 1000 title, defeating Victoria Mboko 6-4, 7-5. This win marked her second career singles title, following her 2019 Korea Open win.

“I haven’t had a second to think about anything yet, but I’ll for sure go to Dubai tomorrow and see how I feel and decide there,”

Karolina Muchova, via wtatennis.com

As a result of Muchova’s withdrawal, qualifier Moyuka Uchijima will now face lucky loser Anastasia Zakharova in the first round.

Impact on the Draw

Zheng Qinwen was scheduled to play Peyton Stearns, but Stearns will now face a different opponent. Sakkari’s withdrawal means Iva Jovic [16] will now encounter lucky loser Kamilla Rakhimova.

You can view the updated singles draw (PDF).

Zheng Qinwen’s Return and Recent Performance

Zheng recently returned to competition in Doha after a five-month absence, reaching the Round of 16. She made a strong statement in her first-round match, firing 20 aces in a statement three-set win against Sofia Kenin. She followed that up with a three-set victory over Alycia Parks before falling to Elena Rybakina in a close match, 6-4, 2-6, 5-7.

After undergoing elbow surgery last July, Zheng briefly returned to play in October but was forced to retire in her second match and end her season to focus on recovery. She withdrew from the Australian Open, stating she wasn’t at the necessary level to compete in a Grand Slam.

Despite displaying solid form in Doha, the illness will prevent her from competing in Dubai this week.

Looking Ahead

Zheng, currently ranked No. 26, is still on the entry list for the BNP Paribas Open at Indian Wells, the third WTA 1000 event of the season.

Additional Withdrawals

World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka and No. 2 Iga Swiatek have as well withdrawn from the Dubai Championships.

FAQ

• Why did Zheng Qinwen withdraw? She withdrew due to illness.
• Why did Karolina Muchova withdraw? She withdrew due to fatigue.
• Who will Anastasia Zakharova play? She will play Moyuka Uchijima.