India, March 18 -- Aryna Sabalenka was left fuming after withdrawing from this year's Dubai C'ships, as the tournament director criticised her for doing so. Reacting to the director's comment, Sabalenka called it 'ridiculous'.

Tournament director Salah Tahlak told reporters that strict action would be taken against Sabalenka for her late withdrawal, with ranking points to be docked.

Speaking to reporters at the Miami Open, she said, "I think it's ridiculous."

The Belarusian questioned the director's decision not to protect players, accusing him of only caring about sales.

"I don't think he showed himself in the best way possible. For me it's actually so sad to see that the tournament directors and the tournaments not protecting us as ...