(Reuters) – Top seed Iga Swiatek advanced to the semi-finals at Indian Wells after former world number one Caroline Wozniacki retired due to an apparent foot injury early in the second set on Thursday.
Wozniacki started the match strongly, taking a 4-1 lead, but Swiatek turned the tide with a flurry of winners to win the set 6-4.
After showing signs of discomfort on her right foot towards the end of the first set, Wozniacki sought medical attention during a time out, but unfortunately, the issue persisted.
Unable to continue after Swiatek took an early lead in the second set, Wozniacki signaled to her opponent that she had to retire due to the injury.
“I have a lot of respect for her and it’s unfortunate that she had to withdraw this way. I’m sure she will recover and be ready for Miami,” Swiatek expressed.
Swiatek, the defending champion from 2022, is now set to face Ukrainian player Marta Kostyuk in the semi-final match. Kostyuk secured her spot by defeating Anastasia Potapova with a score of 6-0 7-5.
(Reporting by Angelica Medina in Mexico City)
