Azarenka Withdraws from Qatar Total Open Ahead of Muguruza Clash

Victoria Azarenka has withdrawn from her Qatar Total Open semifinal against Garbine Muguruza due to a back injury.

The Belarusian, a two-time champion in Doha in 2012 and 2013 as well as runner-up to Lucie Safarova in 2015, sustained the injury during her quarterfinal win over No.1 seed Elina Svitolina.

Azarenka said in a press statement: “Unfortunately, the pain in my back that I experienced during yesterday’s match has not gone away enough in order for me to be able to compete tonight. I have loved being back here in Doha this week, and want to thank the tournament and everyone involved with the organization of this great event for hosting us and making it possible to play during these challenging times.”

As a result, the unseeded Muguruza moves into her 14th career final and second of 2021 so far.

The Spaniard was runner-up to Ashleigh Barty at the Yarra Valley Classic a month ago and will be seeking her first title since Monterrey 2019, and first at 500/Premier level or above since Cincinnati 2017.

Source: (QNA)