MELBOURNE: Elena Rybakina delivered a commanding performance to defeat world number one Aryna Sabalenka in a thrilling Australian Open final on Saturday securing her first title in Melbourne.
The 26-year old Kazakh prevailed 6-4, 4-6, 6-4, avenging her defeat to Sabalenka in their final meeting three years ago.The victory earned Rybakina her second Grand Slam crown adding to her Wimbledon triumph in 2022.
The championship match showcased high-quality tennis, with both players reaching the final without dropping a set. Rybakina made a strong start breaking serve early and dictating play with her powerful serve and aggressive groundstrokes to take the opening set.
Sabalenka responded in the second set, raising her intensity and capitalising on unforced errors to level the contest. The Belarusian then surged to a 3-0 lead in the deciding set but Rybakina showed composure and resilience winning six of the next seven games to turn the match around.
Rybakina sealed the victory with a blistering ace before celebrating with her team and sharing a warm embrace with Sabalenka at the net.Sabalenka, aiming for a third consecutive Australian Open title praised her opponent’s performance despite an emotional defeat.
The win further cements Rybakina’s status as a dominant force in women’s tennis particularly on hard courts.
