Halep up to No.4 in the world despite withdrawal

Originally published on 15/05/14

The 22-year-old won 11 of the last 12 games to beat Madison Keys 5-7 6-0 6-1 in the second round in Rome.

However, last year’s semi-finalist decided she was unable to continue any further and will now rest up ahead of the French Open.

"I'm very sad I have to withdraw from the tournament, but it was impossible to continue because of a left abdominal injury," said Halep. "I have great memories from Rome last year when I reached the semi-final.

"I will fly home to Bucharest and I will have treatment every day. I hope the treatment, together with a few days of rest, will allow me to start practice again next week and I hope I will be ready to play Roland Garros."

Despite her withdrawal, Halep will still leapfrog Victoria Azarenka and move up to No.4 in the world when the rankings are released next Monday.

Those rankings will also be the seedings for the French Open, meaning Halep will avoid Serena Williams, Li Na and Agnieszka Radwanska until at least the semi-finals.

The Romanian is the 56th player in the history of the WTA to break into the top four in the rankings.

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