Elena Rybakina shows what it takes to be a true champion after overcoming Sabalenka and Swiatek
If we're talking about the biggest story on the WTA Tour this season, it has to be Elena Rybakina. The reason her name is on everyone’s lips is simple: her dominant wins over top-ranked players. In this tournament, Rybakina has set another milestone in her career, proving she’s more than just a title contender—she’s ready to join the ranks of the absolute elite.
Group Stage vs. Sabalenka: The Serve Machine is Back
The match that everyone was waiting for early in the tournament was definitely the group stage clash with Aryna Sabalenka. Going up against the world number one, Rybakina didn't back down at all. Instead, she relied on her signature explosive first serve to neutralise Sabalenka's powerful groundstrokes. She was firing down serves clocking over 190km/h, racking up a total of 10 aces. Sabalenka was struggling from the baseline all match long. The result was a straight-sets victory for Rybakina. It was a performance that had everyone saying, "Rybakina has once again shown why she's a Wimbledon champion."
Day 7, 3rd Round vs. Mertens: Nailed It Under Pressure
On Day 7, her third-round opponent was Belgium's dark horse, Elise Mertens. Mertens tried to unsettle Rybakina with her tenacious defence and tricky angles. After dropping the first set, things looked a bit shaky, but this is where Rybakina's real strength shone through. She stayed calm and composed on court, figuring out her opponent's game plan. From the second set onwards, she locked in her return game, breaking Mertens' serve repeatedly. She came from behind to book her spot in the Round of 16, showing off her ice-cool temperament when it matters most.
Swiatek vs. Rybakina: The Start of a New-Gen Rivalry
The showdown fans were most eager to see finally happened in the semi-finals against Iga Swiatek. Their matches are always exciting because of the contrast in styles. When Swiatek's heavy topspin meets Rybakina's flat winners, the court turns into a canvas. In this match, Rybakina showed off an even more polished game with better court coverage and a rock-solid forehand. The way she anticipated Swiatek's deep balls and positioned herself early showed that she has grown beyond just power tennis into a smart, tactical player. After a hard-fought battle, she clinched a 2-1 victory to book her spot in the final.
What's Different About Rybakina?
It's not just about winning; this tournament has proven a few key things about Rybakina.
- More than just a big serve: Before, she needed her serve to fire on all cylinders to win. Now, even if her serve is slightly off, she has other ways to construct points and win matches.
- Unshakeable mentality: Her comeback win against Mertens was only possible because of her mental strength. She didn't crumble when the pressure was on.
- Dominant head-to-head against top 10 players: By taking down top players like Sabalenka and Swiatek back-to-back, she has completely shed any doubts about her ability to perform against the best.
Looking at her form, it seems like it’s only a matter of time before Rybakina adds another Grand Slam trophy to her collection this season. That’s why tennis fans around the world are paying close attention to every shot that comes off her racquet.