The Kazakh player withdrew from the match before a point was played, giving the Canadian Fernandez safe passage into the last four in Osaka, where she will play Kamilla Rakhimova for a place in the final.
The unexpected withdrawal came as a disappointment to fans gathered at the venue, prompting the top-ranked player to address the crowd directly to explain her sudden decision.
"I just wanted to say thank you so much for coming today, but unfortunately I won’t be able to play," the 27-year-old said on-court.
Elaborating further on the physical issues that forced her hand, Rybakina revealed that the problem had been lingering for several days, ultimately making it impossible for her to compete at the elite level required on the professional tour.
"I’ve been struggling for a couple of days with a little injury," she explained, emphasizing the delicate balance players must maintain between competing in current events and protecting their long-term health.
"It’s difficult for me to come and play at 100 per cent since there is also a very important tournament coming up."
Prior to her withdrawal in Osaka, Rybakina had been displaying the type of dominant form that has come to define her remarkable 2025 season. She secured her place in the quarterfinals with a commanding 6-2, 6-3 victory over compatriot Yulia Putintseva, showcasing the baseline power and tactical precision that have propelled her to the summit of women’s tennis. Despite her premature exit from the Pan Pacific Open, it has already been confirmed that she will retain the coveted world No 1 ranking at the conclusion of the tennis year.
This achievement caps off an extraordinary campaign for the 27-year-old, highlighted by two magnificent Grand Slam triumphs at the Australian Open and the U.S. Open. Having previously claimed the prestigious Wimbledon singles title in 2022, Rybakina now finds herself within touching distance of tennis immortality. As a player born in Russia who represents Kazakhstan, she is now only a French Open title away from completing the illustrious career Grand Slam—a feat achieved by only a select group of legends in the history of the sport.
Reflecting on her ascent to the top of the rankings and her consistency across the demanding global tour, Rybakina described her year-end status as an incredibly special moment for her professional career and personal journey.
"I’m really proud of what I’ve achieved this season and the consistency I’ve shown throughout the year," said Rybakina. Her stellar season was not limited to the majors; she also added titles in Stuttgart and Ningbo to her resume, before officially rising to the world No. 1 spot for the very first time following her hard-fought victory at Flushing Meadows.
In recognition of her phenomenal achievements throughout the season, Rybakina is set to receive a special presentation. She will be officially honored with a commemorative trophy marking her year-end world No. 1 status during a dedicated ceremony at the upcoming WTA Finals, which are scheduled to take place in Indian Wells from November 8-15.