Sabalenka Breaks Losing Streak Against Rybakina
World No 1 Aryna Sabalenka ended her losing streak against Elena Rybakina in a gripping final at Indian Wells on Sunday.
Sabalenka had previously defeated Rybakina at the 2023 Australian Open but had lost four consecutive finals to the Kazakh player since then, including the WTA Finals last season.
Comeback Victory After Set Down
After dropping the first set, Sabalenka rallied to secure a 3-6, 6-3, 7-6 victory. She saved a match point in the deciding tiebreak to clinch the title.
Following her semi-final win at the tournament, Sabalenka expressed her frustration with losing major finals, stating she was “so done” with such outcomes.
Memorable Week for Sabalenka
Celebrating on court with her fiancé and new puppy, Sabalenka reflected on the significance of the week.
“What a week – getting a puppy, getting engaged and winning a title. I will definitely remember it for the rest of my life,”
she said.
Rybakina’s Strong Form and Match Dynamics
Rybakina entered the match on a 12-match winning streak against top-10 opponents and appeared in control after winning the first set and securing a break. Sabalenka showed visible frustration, breaking her racket on the ground, but then turned the momentum in the second set by winning four consecutive games and withstanding late pressure to force a deciding set.
Power Tennis Duel and Final Set Drama
The final was marked by powerful tennis from both players. Sabalenka took an early lead in the third set by breaking serve in the third game. However, Rybakina increased the pressure, and Sabalenka was unable to serve out the match at 5-4.
Rybakina, who will rise to world No 2 on Monday, surpassing Iga Swiatek for the first time, saved five break points in the subsequent game, intensifying the challenge for Sabalenka.
Despite the pressure, Sabalenka maintained her composure, saving a match point at 5-6 in the tiebreak with a series of powerful backhands before seizing her first opportunity to win the title.
