Rybakina Defeats Sabalenka In Three Sets To Captures First Australian Open Title
Elena Rybakina captured the second major title of her career this past weekend as she defeated two-time champion and four-time finalist Aryna Sabalenka 6-4, 4-6, 6-4 in a thrilling Australian Open final.
Rybakina, who also won Wimbledon in 2022, was behind 0-3 in deciding set before winning six of the final seven games.
“It’s hard to find words now,” Rybakina said. “But of course, I want to congratulate Aryna. And I know it’s tough now, but I just hope that we’re going to play many more finals together.”
Staring down a 0-3 deficit in the third, Rybakina calmly held serve for 1-3 to get herself back into rhythm. It was the first game in a run of five straight games won by Rybakina to seize control of the match.
After Sabalenka held to trim the set to 4-5, Rybakina held serve to win the title, sealing the championship with an ace.
The final was a rematch of the 2023 event, where Sabalenka won her first major. In that match, Rybakina won the first set before dropping the next two, but she was able to play her best tennis when it mattered most this time around.
“Last time I was close, but Aryna played really well. I remember that she stepped in, she went for her shots, she was serving really well, and I think she was even risking a little bit because the second serve was going almost [like] first,” Rybakina explained. “I knew that today if I get a chance to lead, that I will need to try some risky shots and just go for it. Not wait for any mistakes or even get to the long rallies. It’s great, and amazing to hold this trophy this time.”
Rybakina moves up to number three in the world, while Sabalenka remains atop the world rankings.
“I love being here, I love playing in front of you all,” said Sabalenka. “You guys are incredible support. I’m always looking forward to coming and playing in front of you, and let’s hope maybe next year is going to be a better year for me.”
