Aryna Sabalenka described the criticism of her withdrawal from the Dubai Tennis Championships as "ridiculous" ahead of her Miami Open title defence. 

After the season-opening Australian Open, Sabalenka, along with world number two Iga Swiatek, withdrew from the WTA 1000 tournament two days before it started. 

The Belarusian cited a minor hip injury when she pulled out of the tournament last month, ​before the US-Israeli war with Iran sparked chaos in the region.

Tournament director Salah Tahlak said last month that Sabalenka and Poland's Swiatek should be docked ranking points and their withdrawal was an "unfortunate surprise". 

"I don't think he showed himself in the best way possible," said four-time Grand Slam champion Sabalenka.

"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.

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

The best week of my life!! A new puppy, getting engaged and my first @bnpparibasopen title! Thank you for all of the support  pic.twitter.com/7S2VyXZaUN

— Sabalenka Aryna (@SabalenkaA) March 16, 2026

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.

Sabalenka won the Indian Wells title against Elena Rybakina on Sunday in what was a rematch of her defeat to the same opponent in Melbourne. 

"Going into this season, we decided to prioritise my health and make sure we have these little gaps in the schedule where I can reset, recharge, work and be better prepared for bigger tournaments," said Sabalenka, who will attempt to defend her Miami Open title this week.

"I feel like the scheduling is going crazy and that's why you see so many players injured, always taped and not delivering the best quality matches because it's almost impossible."