Elena Rybakina stormed past world No. 2 Iga Świątek with a 7‑5, 6‑1 victory at Melbourne Park, securing her place in the Australian Open final against Aryna Sabalenka. The 26‑year‑old Kazakh star showcased relentless power, a 70% first‑serve rate and 12 aces, proving she can dominate the sport’s elite on the biggest stage.
Quarter‑Final Masterclass Over Swiatek
Key Stats and Turning Points
Rybakina entered the match on an 18‑win streak, including eight consecutive wins over top‑10 opponents. She delivered a 70% first‑serve percentage, fired 12 aces, and broke at 5‑5 with a forehand winner to clinch the first set 7‑5. In the second set she intensified pressure, forcing errors and closing out 6‑1.
Semi‑Final Battle with Pegula
Mental Toughness in Crucial Moments
Against Jessica Pegula, Rybakina survived a set deficit and three match points. After saving a match point at 4‑5 in the second set, she unleashed a series of high‑velocity serves, broke at 5‑4 and served out the match 6‑4, 6‑3, marking her ninth straight top‑10 victory.
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Implications for Rankings and Kazakh Tennis
A win in the final would likely lift Rybakina back into the world top 2, narrowing the gap with Sabalenka and reinforcing her claim to the No. 3 spot she held earlier this season. Her success highlights Kazakhstan’s growing tennis program, now featuring two world‑class players.
Rybakina’s Power Game Profile
Rybakina’s first‑serve speed regularly exceeds 190 km/h, complemented by a deep, reliable second serve. Her forehand drives the pace of rallies, while recent improvements in backhand defense allow her to retrieve and counter‑attack effectively against heavy topspin opponents.
What to Expect in the Final
The championship match pits two aggressive baseliners with ferocious serves. Rybakina’s recent form, mental resilience, and ability to sustain high intensity suggest she is well‑positioned to challenge Sabalenka for the title and potentially secure a second Grand Slam crown.
