After dethroning the world’s top two players in Melbourne, the calm yet ruthless champion eyes a rise to the summit of women’s tennis.
SHARJAH – In a stunning display of composed power, Elena Rybakina solidified her status as tennis’s most formidable “quiet assassin” by winning the Australian Open on Saturday, defeating world number one Aryna Sabalenka in a gripping three-set final.
The 26-year-old Kazakh, born in Moscow, triumphed 6-4, 4-6, 6-4 in a high-octane rematch of the 2023 final, securing her second Grand Slam title and proving her Wimbledon win was no fluke. Her victory was sealed with trademark resilience, clawing back from a 0-3 deficit in the deciding set.
Rybakina’s path to the trophy was a statement of intent. She dismantled world number two Iga Świątek in straight sets in the quarter-finals before overcoming Sabalenka, marking her second victory over a reigning world number one in three months. This latest win extends her remarkable run to 20 victories in her last 21 matches.
“It’s different now,” said Rybakina, reflecting on her momentum shift since mid-last year. “I just hope that I can carry all this momentum… and continue this way throughout the year.”
Despite her serene demeanor on court—which earned her the “quiet assassin” moniker in Australian media—Rybakina revealed the immense relief beneath her understated celebrations. Her career, once hampered by injuries and insomnia, now appears poised for a historic charge.
Currently set to return to her career-high ranking of world number three, Rybakina was coy yet confident when asked about targeting the top spot. “I have big goals,” she stated. “Of course, time will show, but definitely we will keep on working.”
With a powerful, aggressive game and newfound consistency, the softly spoken champion has loudly announced her arrival as the dominant force to beat on the WTA Tour.
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