Delhi, 17 July (H.S.): Aryna Sabalenka, the top-ranked tennis player, has withdrawn from the National Bank Open in Montreal to focus on her preparation for the US Open and to get additional rest. She expressed excitement for the North American hard-court season but believes skipping Montreal is the best choice for her performance.

Sabalenka reached the Wimbledon semifinals recently before losing to Amanda Anisimova. The National Bank Open starts on July 27, and Sabalenka is expected to return at the Cincinnati Open in early August, ahead of the US Open beginning on August 24. Paula Badosa also withdrew due to injury.

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar