As the Indian Wells Open continues, six competitors have already announced their withdrawal from the upcoming Miami Open, with the participation of Coco Gauff remaining uncertain. The Miami Open, taking place from March 17 to 29 at Hard Rock Stadium in Florida, serves as the second tournament in the US Sunshine Double following Indian Wells, and has seen multiple withdrawals impacting both men’s and women’s singles draws.
Before the Indian Wells draws were finalized, a total of 17 players pulled out from both the ATP and WTA singles events, with two additional withdrawals occurring before opening matches. The Miami Open, marking its 41st edition in 2026, features a combined ATP/WTA 1000 level event on outdoor hard courts, hosting 96 players per singles draw, including 32 seeds who all benefit from first-round byes.
Notable Withdrawals on the Women’s Side
Among women’s singles competitors, Frenchwoman Lois Boisson, ranked No. 37 globally, is the highest-ranked player to withdraw from the Miami Open. Boisson, 22, also missed the Indian Wells event and has not competed since September due to injury. Her slot in the main draw has been filled by world No. 64 Katie Boulter.
- Lois Boisson (world No. 37) – replaced by Katie Boulter
- Oleksandra Oliynykova (world No. 73) – replaced by Oksana Selekhmeteva
- Wang Yafan (world No. 355, entered with protected ranking) – replaced by Anastasia Potapova
Men’s Draw Experiences Key Player Absences
The men’s singles bracket will also see the absence of three players who withdrew from Indian Wells and will miss Miami as well. Holger Rune, Tallon Griekspoor, and Jaume Munar were all expected to compete, with both Rune and Griekspoor projected as seeds based on current rankings.
- Holger Rune (world No. 18) – replaced by Juan Manuel Cerundolo
- Tallon Griekspoor (world No. 25) – replaced by James Duckworth
- Jaume Munar (world No. 36) – replaced by Alexander Shevchenko
Impact on Rankings and Rivalries
Coco Gauff’s premature retirement from Indian Wells has raised questions about her ability to participate in Miami, potentially opening up a pathway for rising players like Alex Eala, who is poised to break into the WTA top 30. The absence of top contenders also reshapes the landscape for rising stars and established players alike.
Meanwhile, intense rivalries remain at the forefront of tennis stories, with athletes like Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner leaving lasting marks on their opponents. The withdrawals and uncertain player statuses ahead of Miami set the stage for shifting dynamics in this prestigious tournament held in Florida.
