Rybakina Powers into Australian Open Final to Face Sabalenka
Elena Rybakina showcased her immense talent and resilience as she battled past Jessica Pegula to secure her spot in the Australian Open final, setting up a highly anticipated rematch against Aryna Sabalenka.
The fifth seed from Kazakhstan defeated the American sixth seed 6-3, 7-6 (9/7), in a gripping encounter that lasted 1 hour and 40 minutes on the iconic Rod Laver Arena. With this victory, Rybakina remains undefeated in the tournament, having not dropped a single set.
“It was such a battle. It was an epic second set. I’m really glad I managed to win it,” Rybakina said after the match. “I’m very proud that, no matter the situation, I kept fighting for each point.”
Rybakina’s victory puts her in a high-stakes final against the world No. 1, Aryna Sabalenka, who denied her the title in a thrilling showdown three years ago. Rybakina is eager to claim her second Grand Slam title, following her Wimbledon victory in 2022.
Earlier in the tournament, Rybakina stunned second seed Iga Swiatek in the quarterfinals and claims an impressive record with 19 wins in her last 20 matches, including a victory over Sabalenka in the WTA Finals in Riyadh last November.
Rybakina took charge early, breaking Pegula’s serve and quickly establishing a 3-0 lead. While Pegula began to find her rhythm, her efforts were not enough to change the momentum. Rybakina cruised through the first set in just 32 minutes.
The second set was a tense affair. After exchanging breaks, Pegula mounted a comeback that took the match to a nail-biting tiebreak. However, Rybakina’s composure shone through, allowing her to secure the win and march into only her third Grand Slam final.
“I’m just happy to have reached this point,” Rybakina added. “Now, it’s all about focusing on the final and bringing my best game.”
