Karolina Pliskova withdrew before her match with Swiatek in Dubai and gave the Polish player another walkover for the second week in a row.
Swiatek broke a record last week and it was the number of games lost en route to a trophy. The record was largely made possible by the fact that she didn't play one match after receiving a walkover. She just got another one as Pliskova withdrew due to a virus and cramps sending the Polish player into the semi-final.
Pliskova announced it on social media:
"I'm very sorry, but I have to withdraw from the @DDFTennis. After playing the finals here a few years ago and doing very well this year, it's very disappointing for me. But after struggling with a virus and cramps for couple hours right after my match, I'm not able to continue."
