Back injury forces Wawrinka out of Federer clash
Basel, October 25
Stan Wawrinka was forced to withdraw from today’s quarterfinal showdown against best friend Roger Federer with a back injury, just an hour after struggling past America’s Frances Tiafoe in a gruelling second round clash at the Swiss Indoors here.
“The bad news is that I will have to retire,” the 34-year-old three-time Grand Slam winner said after his 6-3 3-6 7-5 win. “I had some trouble with my back in the last game. I’m sure I cannot make it for tomorrow (Friday).”
Top seed Federer, chasing a 10th title at his hometown event, will receive a walkover into Saturday’s semifinals.
It would have been the 27th meeting between the two Swiss teammates and Federer would have been the comfortable favourite boasting a 23-3 record over their 14-year rivalry.
Sabalenka reaches WTA Elite Trophy semis
Zhuhai (China): Fourth seed Aryna Sabalenka beat doubles partner and Belgian sixth seed Elise Mertens 6-4 3-6 7-5 to top their group and qualify for the semifinals of the WTA Elite Trophy here today. In the semes, Sabalenka will play Czech Republic’s Karolina Muchova, while top seed Kiki Bertens will face Zheng Saisai. — Agencies
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