Elena Rybakina has withdrawn from the Pan Pacific Open in Tokyo due to a neck injury, just one day after securing the year-end world number one ranking.

The Moscow-born Kazakh was scheduled to meet Canada’s Leylah Fernandez in the quarter-finals on Friday. However, rather than taking to the court for the match, the 27-year-old appeared to address the spectators and sign autographs.

Rybakina confirmed that she had been struggling with an injury for several days and intends to return for next month’s WTA Finals in Indian Wells.

“I just wanted to say thank you so much for coming today, but unfortunately I won’t be able to play,” she told the crowd.

“I’ve been struggling for a couple of days with a little injury.

“It’s difficult for me to come and play at 100% since there is also a very important tournament coming up.”

Rybakina secured the year-end top ranking with a convincing 6-2, 6-3 victory over compatriot Yulia Putintseva in her opening match in Tokyo.

She first reached the world number one position last month after winning the US Open, replacing Aryna Sabalenka at the top of the rankings.

The achievement caps an outstanding season for Rybakina, who also lifted the Australian Open trophy in January to bring her Grand Slam tally to three major titles.

She arrived in the Japanese capital in impressive form after claiming her fourth title of the season at last week’s Ningbo Open in China, where she defeated Fernandez in the final.

Despite her withdrawal, Rybakina thanked the Tokyo crowd for their continued support and expressed her hope of returning next year.

“Thank you so much for all the support throughout the year, especially here in Tokyo,” she said.

“It’s an amazing city. I really enjoy it every time I come, but unfortunately this time I won’t be able to play.

“Thanks again and hope to see you all next year.”