Ekaterina Alexandrova has been called up to replace Keys after Mirra Andreeva, who holds the ninth-ranked player, chose not to sign in because of lacking fitness to play today, as stated by the Women's Tennis Association.
Recent reports have highlighted issues about how players are facing challenges by the WTA.
Welcome to the latest installment at the Women's Tennis Finals. Although both matches offer thrilling action, the primary attraction features Swiatek competing against Amanda Anisimova.
Their previous encounter at Wimbledon four months ago proved extremely lopsided, with Swiatek achieving a commanding double bagel win. Nevertheless, the American player delivered a remarkable recovery just weeks later, overcoming Swiatek in convincing fashion during the New York tournament.
This crucial encounter represents the third chapter of their ongoing battle, with the victorious player advancing to the next round in Riyadh.
Earlier in the day, Rybakina will face Alexandrova instead of the originally scheduled opponent. The American player withdrew due to illness in what constitutes a dead rubber, allowing the tenth-ranked player to participate. The Kazakh star aims to maintain her perfect streak, having previously defeated both Swiatek and the American contender to secure her last-four position.