The 2022 Australian Open champion will not contest Indian Wells for the second year in a row.
Last month, BNP Paribas Open organizers released a statement from Ashleigh Barty, who sat out the Saint Petersburg Ladies Trophy, stating: “Indian Wells is definitely at the top of the list when it comes to favorite stops on tour. My team and I were disappointed to miss the October event, but we look forward to returning in March.”
The Indian Wells Masters was exceptionally staged during the fall, in October last year - instead of the usual date in March due to the Covid-19 pandemic, without the World No. 1 player’s presence, as she ended his season early after the U.S. Open to focus on her 2022 campaign.
Barty will also miss the WTA Tour event in Miami, a tournament she won on two consecutive occasions, being the reigning champion.
“Unfortunately, my body has not recovered the way I’d hoped after the Australian Open, and I have not been able to adequately prepare for Indian Wells and Miami,” she said.
“I don’t believe I am at the level necessary to win these events, and as a result I have decided to withdraw from both tournaments.
“I love these events and am sad not to be there competing, but getting my body right must be my focus.”
Moreover, the three-time major winner outlined: “My aim is to represent my country at the upcoming Billie Jean King Cup event in April. After missing the BJK Cup last year, I can’t wait to wear the green and gold again.”
The Billie Jean King Cup qualifying event starts on April 15, with Australia playing a home tie against Slovakia.
Furthermore, the 25-year-old also took the opportunity to remember those affected by historic flooding in eastern Australia as the people suffering from the war with Russia in Ukraine.
“On a more important note, it has been a tough few weeks at home in Australia and around the world. I send all of my thoughts and best wishes to everyone in Queensland and New South Wales who have been affected by the devastating floods. To the people of Ukraine, especially my peers in the tennis family, we are all thinking of you and hope for peace.”
Last January, Barty became the first Australian to win her home Grand Slam in 44 years after defeating World No. 11, Danielle Collins, 6-3, 7-6(2) in the championship match.
The American player has also withdrawn from the combined men’s and women’s Masters 1000 due to an ongoing injury.
Indian Wells, also known as “the fifth Grand Slam” will run from March 9-20, featuring a top field, including reigning champion Paula Badosa and 2018 winner Naomi Osaka.
The Japanese player returns to Tennis Paradise, where she achieved her maiden WTA singles title at the young age of 20 years old.
Currently ranked World No. 44, Osaka has been awarded a wildcard for the 2022 edition.