The Australian Open final between Elena Rybakina and Aryna Sabalenka was a repeat of the 2023 edition, when both also faced each other in Melbourne. On that occasion, the title went to Belarusian Sabalenka, who achieved her first Grand Slam victory. Before this meeting, she had four titles, while Rybakina had ‘only’ won Wimbledon in 2022, now prevailing 6-4, 4-6 and 6-4.
The Russian-born tennis player, who represents Kazakhstan, was in excellent form throughout the tournament in Australia. He eliminated Iga Swiatek convincingly and also impressed against Jessica Pegula. Sabalenka, in turn, gave Elina Svitolina no chance in the semi-finals, among other opponents.
At Rod Laver Arena, Rybakina struck the first decisive blow. He immediately took advantage of one of the few break opportunities he had, putting Sabalenka in difficulty at the beginning of the set. The number one in the ranking also had several chances to react, but failed against the Kazakh. Thus, he won the first set.
Sabalenka reacts
For Sabalenka, it was crucial to change her attitude. And that’s what he did. At the end of the second set, she finally managed to break her opponent’s serve. This immediately earned him the victory in the set, which he achieved with an impressive 40-0 game, leading to a decisive set.
Remarkable recovery
In that third set, Sabalenka immediately grabbed the Kazakh. He quickly managed to break serve and went 3-0 ahead. After Rybakina was reprimanded by her coach, who accused her of not showing energy, she reacted strongly, breaking Sabalenka’s serve. They did it twice in a row, which put them at 3-5, needing just one more game.
Sabalenka’s frustration increased, manifesting itself, among other things, when she threw her racket to the ground. With an ace, Rybakina ended up winning the match and finally conquered another Grand Slam: 6-4, 4-6, 6-4.
Djokovic – Alcaraz
The final of the Australian Open takes place on Sunday, with the men’s final. Novak Djokovic could win his 25th Grand Slam title at the expense of Carlos Alcaraz. Both players needed grueling five-setters against Jannik Sinner and Alexander Zverev, respectively, so the question is how fit they will appear on Rod Laver Arena.
