Elena Rybakina shows what it takes to be a true contender, overcoming Sabalenka and Swiatek
If you had to pick the biggest talking point on the WTA Tour so far this season, it has to be Elena Rybakina. And there's a simple reason why everyone's talking about her: her dominant run of wins against the world's best. In this tournament, Rybakina has put down another marker in her career, proving she's not just a title contender, but ready to join the sport's elite.
Group Stage Showdown with Sabalenka: The Serving Machine is Back
The match everyone was waiting for in the group stages was the heavyweight clash with Aryna Sabalenka. Going up against the world number one, Rybakina didn't look fazed for a second. She took the game to Sabalenka, using her explosive first serve to neutralise her opponent's powerful groundstrokes. Rybakina was firing down serves at over 190km/h, racking up an impressive ten aces. Sabalenka had no answer from the baseline, struggling all match. The result was a commanding 2-0 straight-sets win for Rybakina. It was a performance that had everyone agreeing: "Rybakina has reminded us exactly why she's a Wimbledon champion."
Day 7, 3rd Round vs. Mertens: Cool Head Under Pressure
On day seven of the tournament, she faced Belgium's Elise Mertens in the third round. Mertens, a dangerous opponent, tested Rybakina with her trademark gritty defence and awkward angles, even taking the first set. It was a shaky start, but this is where Rybakina's real strength shone through. Unfazed on court, she kept her cool and started to read her opponent's game. From the second set, she dialled up the intensity on her returns, breaking Mertens's serve repeatedly. She fought back to win the match and book her place in the last 16, showing off her ice-cool temperament under pressure.
Swiatek vs. Rybakina: The Start of a New Classic Rivalry
The semi-final clash with Iga Swiatek was the one fans had been desperate to see. Their matches are always fascinating because of their contrasting styles. When Swiatek's heavy topspin meets Rybakina's flat, line-hitting winners, the court becomes a canvas. On the day, Rybakina produced an even better performance than the day before, showing off improved court coverage and a rock-solid forehand. The way she anticipated Swiatek's deep shots and moved into position early showed she's developed into a smart, tactical player, not just a power hitter. A hard-fought 2-1 victory sent Rybakina through to the final.
What's Different About Rybakina?
This tournament has shown that Rybakina's progress isn't just about winning matches. It's about clear, undeniable improvement.
- More than just a big serve: She used to rely on her serve firing to win. Now, even if her serve isn't at its absolute best, she has the tools and the game plan to find another way to win.
- Rock-solid mentality: That comeback win against Mertens? That came from a strong mental game and a refusal to let her head drop when things got tough.
- Dominating the top 10: By beating the very best like Sabalenka and Swiatek, she's well and truly shaken off any doubts about her ability to perform on the biggest stages.
Based on her current form, it feels like it's only a matter of time before Rybakina adds another Grand Slam trophy to her collection this season. And that's exactly why tennis fans everywhere are watching her every shot.