Ekaterina Alexandrova has stepped in to substitute for Keys after Mirra Andreeva, who holds the ninth-ranked player, decided against participating because of not being fit to play today, according to the WTA.
Current reports have highlighted concerns about how players are facing challenges by the tournament organizers.
Greetings to another day at the WTA Finals. Although both matches promise excitement, the main event showcases Iga Swiatek facing off with Anisimova.
Their last meeting at the Wimbledon Championships four months ago was remarkably one-sided, with the Polish star securing a decisive 6-0, 6-0 win. However, the American player made an impressive comeback shortly after, overcoming Swiatek in straight sets during the US Open quarter-finals.
Today's match marks the third chapter of their competitive rivalry, with the winner advancing to the next round in Riyadh.
Before that contest, Elena Rybakina will compete against Alexandrova instead of the originally scheduled opponent. Keys withdrew due to illness in what constitutes a meaningless match, paving the way for the tenth-ranked player to participate. The Kazakh star aims to continue her unbeaten record, having previously defeated both her Polish rival and Anisimova to secure her last-four spot.
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