Rybakina Triumphs at Australian Open 2026: Epic Comeback Over Sabalenka
Australian Open 2026: Rybakina's Epic Triumph Over Sabalenka
Elena Rybakina claimed her second Grand Slam title by defeating World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka 6-4, 4-6, 6-4 in a thrilling Australian Open women's final on January 31, 2026. The fifth-seeded Kazakh avenged her 2023 loss with a stunning third-set comeback, rallying from 0-3 down at Rod Laver Arena in a 2-hour, 18-minute battle of razor-thin margins.[1][2][4]
The Dramatic Final and Path to Victory
Rybakina dominated early, securing the first set before Sabalenka fought back. In the decider, Rybakina's composure shone, winning 75% of break-point chances and landing 72% of third-set returns. Her journey featured straight-set wins over Iga Świątek and Jessica Pegula, extending her top-10 win streak to 10. Post-match, she dazzled in a red dress photoshoot by the Yarra River, trophy in hand.[1][4]
Rybakina's Rise and Future Ambitions
Now World No. 3 after jumping two spots, Rybakina pockets a record $2.7 million. With Wimbledon 2022 already hers, she eyes Roland Garros and US Open conquests, proving her resilience amid ups and downs.[2]
About the People Mentioned
Aryna Sabalenka
Aryna Sabalenka is a Belarusian professional tennis player, born on May 5, 1998, in Minsk, Belarus[1][2][6]. She is currently recognized as one of the most dominant figures in women’s tennis, having reached the pinnacle of the sport as the WTA World No. 1 and securing her place among the elite players of her generation[1][3][5]. Sabalenka’s tennis journey began at age six, and she started formal training at a local academy by eight, quickly rising through the junior ranks before turning professional in 2015[6][7]. Known for her aggressive baseline play, powerful serve, and relentless competitive spirit, she has become famous for overpowering opponents with her groundstrokes and mental toughness[1][6]. Sabalenka stands 6 feet tall and plays right-handed[4]. Her breakthrough on the WTA Tour came with a rapid ascent in the early 2020s. She first reached the world No. 1 ranking in singles in 2023, a year in which she also won her maiden Grand Slam title at the Australian Open, defeating Elena Rybakina in the final[1][3]. She followed this with another Australian Open victory in 2024 and claimed her third major at the US Open in 2024, then successfully defended that title in 2025 for her fourth Grand Slam triumph[1][5]. In addition to her Grand Slam successes, Sabalenka has won multiple WTA 1000 titles, including Madrid, Miami, and Cincinnati, and has consistently reached the latter stages of major tournaments[2][3][5]. As of late 2025, Sabalenka remains a fixture at the top of the women’s game, having held the year-end No. 1 ranking for the first time in her career[3][5]. Her 2025 season has been particularly strong, with four titles, including two WTA 1000 events and a successful US Open defense, further cementing her status as a leading force in tennis[5]. Off the court, Sabalenka is known for her engaging personality and has become a prominent ambassador for the sport. Sabalenka’s rivalry with players like Iga Świątek and Coco Gauff has been a highlight of recent WTA seasons, contributing to some of the most competitive and high-profile matches in women’s tennis[1]. Her consistency at the highest level, combined with her explosive playing style, ensures she remains a central figure in the sport’s current landscape.
