Elena Rybakina’s message to the rest of the WTA: ‘This is a bad sign’
Elena Rybakina is surely still riding high after winning her second Grand Slam title at the Australian Open.
She beat Aryna Sabalenka 6-4, 4-6, 6-4 at Rod Laver Arena, returning the favour after losing to the same opponent in last year’s final.
Billie Jean King was among those who congratulated Rybakina on her success in Melbourne. Although Sabalenka remains WTA number one, Rybakina has now moved up to world number three.
Elena Rybakina’s growing confidence could spell trouble for WTA rivals
Rybakina dropped just one set throughout her entire run at the Australian Open, where she also beat the likes of Iga Swiatek and Jessica Pegula.
Speaking on Tennis Channel, former player Steve Johnson said: “Yeah, this is the best I think I’ve seen her play.
“And even that’s dating back to when she won Wimbledon a few years ago. And this has just been continued success for her.
“Week in, week out, she’s going out there beating the best players in the world, and it doesn’t faze her. And she looks like she’s getting more and more comfortable on that stage, which is a bad sign for the women at the top of the game.
“Because she is here to stay, and I think there’s going to be a couple more big trophies in her future this season.”
Elena Rybakina’s impressive record against top-10 opponents is a sign of her growing confidence
Rybakina stayed steady throughout the tournament, staying in control even as the tension built up around her. It was especially noticeable in how she celebrated – or didn’t – after winning the Australian Open.
That calmness could be a big advantage when compared to players like Sabalenka and Gauff, who tend to show their emotions more openly during matches.
The 26-year-old has now collected 12 WTA titles and is closing in on 400 career match victories.
What stands out even more, though, is her current streak: she’s now won 10 consecutive matches against top-10 opponents.
It’s clear she feels at ease playing against elite competition, and that confidence could lead to even more success before long.
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