Sabalenka unsure of Dubai tournament return after criticism over withdrawal

March 18 : World number one Aryna Sabalenka said she is unsure about her return to the Dubai Championships after its tournament director criticised her withdrawal this year, labelling the demand for tougher penalties on late pullouts a "ridiculous" idea.

Sabalenka and Iga Swiatek were among several players ruled out due to injury, illness or scheduling changes, leaving lucky losers to fill the depleted main draw in Dubai and taking gloss off the WTA 1000 event only below the Grand Slams in stature.

Sabalenka cited a minor hip injury when she pulled out of the tournament last month, before the U.S.-Israeli war with Iran sparked chaos in the region.

At the time, Dubai tournament director Salah Tahlak told The National that Sabalenka and Swiatek pulling out had been an "unfortunate surprise" for the organisers and sought strict action for late withdrawals with ranking points being docked.

"I think it's ridiculous," Belarusian Sabalenka told reporters at the Miami Open on Tuesday.

"I don't think he showed himself in the best way possible. For me it's actually so sad to see that the tournament directors and the tournaments not protecting us as players. They just care about their (sales), about their tournament and that's it.

"His comment was ridiculous. I'm not sure if I ever want to go there after his comment. For me it's too much."

Reuters has contacted the Dubai tournament for comment.

Top players are obliged to compete in all four Grand Slams, 10 WTA 1000 tournaments and six WTA 500 events under WTA rules, with punishments for missing them ranging from ranking points penalties to fines.

World number four Coco Gauff urged a more understanding view of Swiatek and Sabalenka pulling out of Dubai.

"I just feel Iga and Aryna have played