World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka has declared she may never return to the Dubai Tennis Championships after the tournament director, Salah Tahlak, labeled her injury withdrawal 'ridiculous'. Sabalenka pulled out citing a minor hip injury last month, alongside Iga Swiatek, leaving the depleted main draw. Tahlak had called such late withdrawals 'unfortunate' and demanded stricter penalties, including ranking point deductions. Sabalenka responded angrily to reporters at the Miami Open, calling Tahlak's comments 'ridiculous' and expressing sadness over tournaments prioritizing sales over player protection. 'I'm not sure if I ever want to go there after his comment,' she stated, feeling tournaments 'just care about their (sales), about their tournament and that's it.'

Gauff and others have urged understanding, noting Swiatek and Sabalenka have played Dubai many times without issue. The WTA rules impose penalties for missed events, including Grand Slams and top-tier tournaments. Sabalenka, who skipped Doha to prioritize health, highlighted the punishing 11-month season, blaming it for player injuries and subpar matches. 'The scheduling is going crazy,' she said, advocating for more breaks to reset and prepare. Her recent Indian Wells win, where she overcame Elena Rybakina in a grueling final, was crucial, ending her previous final losses. Sabalenka now eyes completing the 'Sunshine Double' at Miami and Key Biscayne, a feat achieved only by Graf, Clijsters, Azarenka, and Swiatek.

The dispute underscores growing tensions between top players and tournament organizers over player welfare and the demands of a relentless schedule, potentially impacting future participation in key events like Dubai.