Elena Rybakina was spotted greeting fans in Tokyo after her controversial withdrawal from the Japan Open. Rybakina withdrew before her semifinal clash after confirming a spot in November's WTA Finals.In pictures uploaded on X, Rybakina can be seen posing with a fan alongside coach Stefano Vukov. In one photo, a fan wore a University of North Carolina hoodie with its logo in front while posing with the Kazakh.In another snap, Rybakina can be seen holding an umbrella with a Redbull cap on. It was a rainy day in Tokyo as the tennis star explored one of her favorite cities."Rainy but still one of my favorite cities Arigato," she wrote. "Thank you Yonex Tennis for the amazing hospitality."Why did Elena Rybakina withdraw from Japan Open?Elena Rybakina withdrew from the tournament shortly before her semifinal match against Linda Noskova, citing back issues.“I have been having problems with my back and can’t play 100%. I am disappointed that my fans will not see me today but I hope to see you next year,” she said.Noskova advanced to the final, where she was beaten by Belinda Bencic.After making the semifinals of the Pan Pacific Open in Tokyo, the eight-player field for this year's WTA Finals is set. Rybakina will be joined by Aryna Sabalenka (Belarus), Iga Świątek (Poland), Coco Gauff (USA), Amanda Anisimova (USA), Madison Keys (USA), Jessica Pegula (USA) and Jasmine Paolini (Italy).Rybakina has won one Grand Slam title, the 2022 Wimbledon Championships. Her career singles record is 372-159, and her highest ranking was World No. 3 in June 2023. She has played the Tour Finals in 2023 and 2024, so this will be her third straight appearance.