Elena Rybakina is one step closer to defending her title at the National Bank Open in Montreal after opponent Marta Kostyuk was forced to retire from their quarterfinal match on Monday. The Kazakh star, a former champion at this prestigious WTA 1000 event, advanced without dropping a set, though the circumstances were far from ideal.

Kostyuk, a talented young player making waves on the tour, appeared to be struggling with an apparent injury during the second set. She called for the trainer and received medical attention, but ultimately couldn't continue, leaving Rybakina to advance to the semifinals.

A Dominant Display Before the Disruption

Prior to the retirement, Rybakina had been in control of the match. Her powerful serve and aggressive groundstrokes were proving difficult for Kostyuk to handle. Rybakina secured a comfortable first set victory, showcasing her trademark precision and power. The second set was unfolding similarly, with Rybakina holding a lead when Kostyuk's injury became apparent.

“It’s never ideal to advance like that,” Rybakina said in her post-match press conference. “I was feeling good and ready to play, but I hope Marta is okay. Injuries are a part of our sport, and it’s tough to see a player struggle like that.”

Rybakina's Road to the Semifinals

Rybakina's journey to the semifinals has been marked by impressive performances. She navigated a challenging draw, demonstrating her resilience and adaptability on the court. Her powerful game has been a constant threat to her opponents, and she is now considered a strong favorite to win the tournament.

Looking Ahead: The Semifinal Challenge

Rybakina will now face either Jessica Pegula or Liudmila Samsonova in the semifinals. Both opponents are formidable players in their own right, and Rybakina will need to be at her best to secure a spot in the final. The matchup promises to be a thrilling contest, showcasing the best of women's tennis.

Kostyuk's Situation and the WTA Tour

The retirement of Kostyuk highlights the unfortunate reality of injuries in professional tennis. Players often face grueling schedules and intense physical demands, making them susceptible to various ailments. The WTA tour wishes Kostyuk a speedy recovery and hopes to see her back on the court soon.

Rybakina’s victory, while bittersweet given the circumstances, solidifies her position as a top contender in the WTA rankings and strengthens her chances of defending her title in Montreal. The tournament continues to provide compelling tennis action and showcases the depth of talent within the women’s game.