Coco Gauff Withdraws from Dubai Championships Due to Wrist Injury

World No. 3 Coco Gauff has announced her withdrawal from next week's Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships, citing a persistent wrist injury that has been bothering her since the Australian Open. The 21-year-old American made the decision after consulting with her medical team and coaching staff.

Gauff's withdrawal comes as a significant blow to the WTA 1000 event, where she was seeded second and considered one of the favorites for the title. The injury first surfaced during her quarterfinal loss at Melbourne Park last month, where she was visibly struggling with her backhand in the later stages of the match.

"I'm disappointed to withdraw from Dubai, but I need to listen to my body and my medical team," Gauff said in a statement. "The wrist has been bothering me more than I initially thought, and pushing through could lead to a more serious injury that could impact my entire season."

The decision appears to be a precautionary measure as Gauff looks ahead to the crucial spring hard court season, including the BNP Paribas Open at Indian Wells and the Miami Open. These events are particularly important for the American, who has fond memories of both tournaments and will be looking to defend significant ranking points.

Gauff's withdrawal opens up the draw considerably, with several players now having an improved path to the later rounds. Tunisia's Ons Jabeur moves up to the second seed, while Jessica Pegula and Elena Rybakina will also fancy their chances of making a deep run in Dubai.

The American has been dealing with the physical demands of professional tennis since turning pro at just 15. Her team has consistently emphasized the importance of managing her workload carefully, particularly given her age and the expectations placed upon her shoulders.

Gauff is expected to use the next two weeks to fully recover from the wrist issue and resume training ahead of Indian Wells. Her team remains optimistic that with proper rest and treatment, she will be ready to compete at her highest level when the tour moves to California next month.