Tennis world No. 13 admits 'I'm simply not at the level' and won't play rest of season

Elina Svitolina has called time on her 2025 season early doors after admitting she isn't "at the level" to compete. Svitolina was knocked out of the US and Cincinnati Opens in the first round and has since been competing in the Billie Jean King Cup for her native Ukraine.

But with that particular international tournament having come to a conclusion, Svitolina is set to pull the plug on her season. The world No.13 posted an emotional statement on her social media, stating she now needs time "to feel, to breathe and to just be."

She said on Instagram: "I haven't been feeling like myself lately. I'm not in the right emotional space, and I don't feel ready to play, so I am therefore ending the season here.

"Over the years, I've learned that this sport isn't about money, fame, or rankings-it's about being ready to fight and to give your all. Right now, I'm simply not at the level mentally or emotionally to do that. Not every day has to be productive, strong, or full of energy. Some days are heavy-and that doesn't make me weak. It just means I'm human and need time to rest, to feel, to breathe and to just be."

She concluded: "So I'm giving myself the space I need to heal and recharge, instead of forcing it and when I step back on the court, I want to fight with everything I've got and put my best self on the court for the fans, for the game and for myself. Love, Elina."

Svitolina had been due to play in back-to-back WTA 1000 tournaments in Beijing and Wuhan, but raised eyebrows after abruptly pulling out of the Asian swing. The Ukrainian turned 31 years old earlier this year and had made a comeback to the sport in mid-2023 following a period of maternal leave.

Her withdrawal has caused yet more debate around the current schedule and whether it's getting too much for players. Serena Williams' former coach Patrick Mouratoglou believes that's the case, stating: "I think that the calendar that is too heavy is between May and the end of August.

"Three Grand Slams and so many Masters 1000 in such a short period of time. I think this is too much. I would rather have them more spread out in the season. I think it would be better for the players."