World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka says she may skip future Dubai Championships after tournament director Salah Tahlak criticised her withdrawal this year.
Sabalenka pulled out last month with a hip injury, prompting Tahlak to call for tougher penalties on late withdrawals.
“His comment was ridiculous,” she said at the Miami Open. “I’m not sure if I ever want to go there after that.”
Her absence, along with Iga Swiatek’s, left the Dubai draw depleted. Coco Gauff defended both players, saying the criticism was “unnecessary.”
Sabalenka, fresh off her Indian Wells win, stressed she is prioritising health amid a demanding calendar.
“Scheduling is going crazy,” she said. “That’s why you see so many players injured.”
