"That does stink" - Elena Rybakina faces criticism from ex-American pros over 'screw you all' attitude regarding controversial Tokyo withdrawal

Elena Rybakina continues to face criticism for withdrawing from the Japan Open after reaching the semifinals. The Kazakh needed to make it to the last four to secure a spot in the WTA Finals in Riyadh, and she pulled out after her quarterfinal win, citing back issues.

On Monday's episode of the "Nothing Major Show," former American doubles partners Steve Johnson and Sam Querrey shared their thoughts on Rybakina's controversial withdrawal.

"I don't know," Johnson said (Timestamp: 24:00). "Make the semis and then just pull the rip cord like, 'I've made it. Screw you all.'"

Querrey echoed Johnson's sentiment, saying:

"I hate being like, 'Oh, I feel bad for the tournament guy,' but that does stink. Like make the semis and just dip out."

Johnson said Rybakina should have at least tried to make it onto the court, even if it meant suffering a quick exit.

"I would rather have her go out there and just lose 1 and 1," Johnson said. "Pulling out is hard to do. Like, it’s really impressive, first of all, to make it. She knew she had to make a semifinal to reach the Finals -- she did it. And then she beat two players who had beaten her earlier this year.

"As soon as she beat Mboko, I feel like she just walked off the court, went right to the doctor’s office, and said, ‘Thank you, I’m done, I’ll see you guys never.’"

Elena Rybakina cited back troubles to explain her Japan Open exit

Elena Rybakina pulled out of Tokyo ahead of her semifinal match against Linda Nosková. She said she felt sorry for her fans who would not be able to see her compete, but explained the reason behind her decision:

"I'm very sorry, I can't play today. 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."

Rybakina will next feature in the WTA Finals, which will take place in Riyadh from Nov. 1. She 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).