Elena Rybakina Defeats Aryna Sabalenka, Wins Australian Open Again/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ Elena Rybakina claimed her second Grand Slam title by defeating World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka at the 2026 Australian Open. Her 6-4, 4-6, 6-4 victory capped a remarkable comeback after being down 3-0 in the third set. The win highlights her quiet dominance and resurging form in the women’s game.
Rybakina’s Grand Slam Triumph: Quick Looks
- Rybakina beat Aryna Sabalenka 6-4, 4-6, 6-4
- Clinches her second major title after 2022 Wimbledon
- Avenges 2023 Australian Open final loss to Sabalenka
- Won 20 of her last 21 matches
- Now 10-0 vs. Top 10 opponents in recent stretch
- Will rise to World No. 3 in WTA rankings
- Her coach, Stefano Vukov, received recognition after returning from suspension
- Rybakina remains composed and tactical throughout match
- Sabalenka’s streak ends with second consecutive Australian Open final loss
Deep Look: Rybakina Rallies to Beat Sabalenka and Claim Second Grand Slam Title at Australian Open
MELBOURNE, Australia — Elena Rybakina delivered a commanding performance on Saturday at Rod Laver Arena, overcoming early setbacks to defeat World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka in three sets and capture her second career Grand Slam title at the 2026 Australian Open.
The 6-4, 4-6, 6-4 win not only avenged her 2023 final loss to Sabalenka but also marked a turning point in Rybakina’s career, signaling a confident resurgence after a rocky 2025 season marred by coaching controversy and inconsistency.
A Steely Comeback
Rybakina, 26, started strong with a break in the opening game and held firm to take the first set. Though she faltered in the second set and trailed 0-3 in the final set, she launched a five-game streak to swing the momentum and close the match with an ace — her sixth of the match.
Her reaction was subdued yet telling: a fist pump, a handshake, and a smile. For Rybakina, a player known more for poise than pageantry, the real statement came from her game.
“Even maybe my face didn’t show it, but inside there were a lot of emotions,” she said post-match.
A Career-Defining Win
Rybakina’s victory puts an exclamation point on an upward trajectory that began with her WTA Finals win last November. Since then, she has compiled a near-flawless record, winning 20 of her last 21 matches. Her ten-match winning streak against Top 10 players further solidifies her place among the elite.
The win moves her back up to World No. 3, her highest ranking since 2023.
Coaching Redemption
The tournament also marked a comeback of sorts for her coach Stefano Vukov, who was suspended last year. Vukov received a silver plate from tournament organizers in recognition of his role, and Rybakina credited their long-standing partnership.
“We’ve been working since 2019. We’ve won many titles. This one is for the team,” she said.
She emphasized how Vukov’s non-stop court-side tactical input helps sharpen her in matches, even if she doesn’t respond immediately.
Sabalenka’s Disappointment
For Aryna Sabalenka, the result was a painful rerun of 2025 when she was upset in the final by Madison Keys. After losing a 3-0 lead in the deciding set, she admitted to poor decision-making.
“Of course, I have regrets,” Sabalenka said. “She played great tennis, and I wasn’t smart enough at the right time.”
Despite holding three major titles, Sabalenka now faces questions about her performance in pressure moments — especially in Melbourne.
A Win for Kazakhstan
As Rybakina posed with the Daphne Akhurst Memorial Cup, the flag of Kazakhstan was proudly displayed. Born in Russia but representing Kazakhstan since 2018, Rybakina is the nation’s most successful tennis player ever and a figure of quiet excellence on the global stage.
What’s Next?
Rybakina’s win sets the stage for a compelling 2026 season. With improved fitness, a settled coaching team, and newfound confidence, she’s now a clear contender to dominate the tour.
“I just hope I can carry this momentum through the season,” she said.
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