In a display of serene determination, Elena Rybakina secured the Australian Open championship with a performance marked by cool precision and emotional restraint. The 26-year-old tennis star defeated world number one Aryna Sabalenka in a gripping final, winning 6-4, 4-6, 6-4, to claim her second Grand Slam title.
Understated Triumph on the Grand Stage
Elena Rybakina is renowned for her understated style, a trait that has become her hallmark on tennis's biggest stages. As she stood at the baseline on match point, the intense pressure and adrenaline were palpable, yet her exterior remained composed. "Even maybe (my) face didn't show, but inside it was a lot of emotions," Rybakina reflected on the ace that sealed her victory, leaving Sabalenka with no chance to extend the contest.
This reserved reaction echoed her 2022 Wimbledon triumph, where observers noted her lack of euphoric celebrations. After dispelling any doubts about her ability to add another major title, Rybakina's calm demeanor once again defined her success. Expect to see more of her winning ways, rather than demonstrative outbursts, as she continues to rise in the sport.
A Remarkable Run to the Title
Rybakina's path to the Australian Open crown was nothing short of spectacular. As the No. 5 seed, she navigated a challenging draw with second-week victories over top-ranked opponents. She overcame Aryna Sabalenka, a four-time major winner and runner-up, Iga Świątek, a six-time major champion, and Jessica Pegula, ranked No. 6.
"Of course, they're tough opponents, and they have great results, and for so long they are at the top and it's stable," Rybakina said. "Yeah, it's a lot of tough matches I had here—I'm glad that the opportunities which I was getting during the match, I managed to take it."
This victory follows her recent win at the WTA Finals, where she beat Sabalenka to earn a record $5.2 million in prize money. With this latest achievement, Rybakina will return to No. 3 in the world rankings next week, solidifying her status as a top contender for major titles.
Resurgence and Team Support
Rybakina's resurgence comes after a 2025 season marred by interruptions, including the months-long suspension of her coach, Stefano Vukov, by the WTA and inconsistent form. Working with Vukov since 2019, she credits clear communication as key to her preparation and competition success.
Her support team provides a constant stream of technical and tactical advice during matches, which she processes in real-time on the court. After her victory, Rybakina's first interactions were with her team, hugging Vukov and each member individually, highlighting the collaborative effort behind her success.
Overcoming Challenges and Building Confidence
Following her Wimbledon win in 2022 and a loss to Sabalenka in the 2023 Australian Open final, Rybakina experienced fluctuating form. While Sabalenka and Świątek maintained their dominance, questions arose about Rybakina's ability to return as a major threat.
"I always believed that I can come back to the level I was," she asserted. "Of course, we all have ups and downs. Like I think everyone. I thought maybe I will never be again in the final or even get a trophy, but it's all about the work."
With 20 wins in her last 21 matches and a perfect 10-0 record against Top 10 players recently, Rybakina's confidence has soared. "Of course, when you're getting after some wins, big wins against top players, then you start to believe more, you get more confident," she explained.
Looking Ahead with Pride
Rybakina, born in Moscow but representing Kazakhstan, expressed pride in her team's efforts and her peak form at the Grand Slam. "I'm just very proud of the work we did with the team, and actually that I found my kind of best form here at the Grand Slam," she said. "It's a win for all the team, all the people who support me."
After the match, Rybakina maintained her understated persona, raising a glass for a toast at the champion's news conference and smiling for photos by the Yarra River. As she prepares for her next flight, the tennis world anticipates more quiet triumphs from this formidable player.
