Jelena Rybakina has made history by winning her first Australian Open title. The fifth-ranked player from Kazakhstan triumphed over Belarus’s top seed Aryna Sabalenka in a thrilling final, winning with scores of 6:4, 4:6, 6:4. This match marked a rematch of their previous year’s final, where Sabalenka was victorious.
Rybakina’s Remarkable Achievement
Rybakina’s victory on January 31, 2026, in the Rod Laver Arena secured her second Grand Slam title, following her Wimbledon triumph in 2022. She expressed immense pride in her performance and gratitude towards her fellow countrymen, stating, “Thank you, Kazakhstan.” Rybakina also hopes to continue her rivalry with Sabalenka in future finals.
Final Match Details
- Event: Australian Open Final
- Date: January 31, 2026
- Location: Rod Laver Arena, Melbourne
- Players: Jelena Rybakina vs. Aryna Sabalenka
- Scores: 6:4, 4:6, 6:4
Rybakina showcased her nerves of steel throughout the match, especially in front of a packed arena. Her performance was highlighted by powerful serves, including an impressive final ace that sealed her victory.
The Match Overview
Initially, Rybakina established control of the match with an early break against Sabalenka, whose powerful baseline strokes failed to find their rhythm. Despite being the reigning champion, Sabalenka struggled to match Rybakina’s intensity, reminiscent of their previous encounter in the WTA Finals.
Sabalenka, determined to improve upon her past matches, rebounded in the second set. After a fierce battle, she converted her single set point, leveling the match. However, the final set remained tightly contested, with Sabalenka initially gaining the upper hand through an early break.
Looking Ahead
After the match, Sabalenka expressed disappointment but congratulated Rybakina on her success. “I hope next year will be a better year for me,” she remarked. Meanwhile, Rybakina’s win further solidified her status as a rising star in women’s tennis, as she prepared to ascend to world number three in the rankings.
With this victory at the Australian Open, Jelena Rybakina not only claimed a prestigious title but also took a significant step in her quest for tennis greatness, showcasing her talent and determination on the global stage.
