Petra Kvitova 'really disappointed' after injury forces withdrawal from Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships

Czech world No 10 won the tournament in 2013 and is currently on a 13-match winning streak.

epa06540590 Petra Kvitova of the Czech Republic in action against Garbine Muguruza of Spain during their final match of the WTA Qatar Ladies Open tennis tournament at the International Khalifa Tennis Complex in Doha, Qatar, 18 February 2018.  EPA/NOUSHAD THEKKAYIL
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Two-time Wimbledon champion Petra Kvitova has become the latest high-profile withdrawal from this week's WTA Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships.

The in-form Czech, winner of the tournament in 2013, confirmed her omission on Monday, citing a leg injury. Kvitova won the Qatar Open on Sunday, stretching her winning streak to 13 matches.

The world No 10 joins other marquee names in Maria Sharapova, Simona Halep and Madison Keys in pulling out of the event this past week. Julia Goerges, the world No 11, also withdrew before the tournament began.

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"I am really disappointed to be withdrawing from the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships,” Kvitova said in a statement. “I spent my off-season in Dubai this year and was really looking forward to being back at a tournament where I have had some great results.

“After playing a lot of tennis in the past few weeks, and winning the title today, my whole body is in much need of a rest. I can't wait to be back in Dubai next year and wish you all the best this week."

Even with a number of marquee players missing, the Dubai event still boasts six of the current top nine-ranked players in the women’s game. On Wednesday, defending champion Elina Svitolina begins her quest to retain the title she won last year by defeating Caroline Wozniacki, the current world No 1.

Regarding Kvitova’s withdrawal, tournament director Salah Tahlak said: “We are sorry that our 2013 champion, who has made such an inspiring return to the top of women’s tennis, is unable to play in Dubai. The Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships wishes Petra a speedy recovery."