Kvitova out of French Open after injury during media obligations

Petra Kvitova Susan Mullane-USA TODAY Sports

Petra Kvitova out of French Open after injuring ankle during media obligations

By Zac Wassink | Last updated 6/1/21

Media requirements are going to be arguably the biggest story of this year's French Open.

One day after world No. 2 Naomi Osaka pulled out of the Grand Slam amid her controversial decision to skip all news conferences and media sessions, Petra Kvitova confirmed that she's withdrawing from Roland-Garros because of an ankle injury she suffered during her media obligations Sunday.

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— Petra Kvitova (@Petra_Kvitova) June 1, 2021

Kvitova, currently ranked No. 12, is a two-time Wimbledon champion, and her status for that major that starts June 28 is up in the air. According to D'Arcy Maine of ESPN, Kvitova would've faced Elena Vesnina on Wednesday in the French Open's second round.

Osaka generated international headlines last Wednesday when she explained she wouldn't participate in press obligations because of mental health issues. The WTA responded: "Professional athletes have a responsibility to their sport and their fans to speak to the media surrounding their competition, allowing them the opportunity to share their perspective and tell their story."

Osaka was ultimately fined $15,000 for refusing to speak with media members and threatened with disqualification from the French Open before she removed herself from the tournament.

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