Elena Rybakina produced a stunning third-set fightback to defeat world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka 6-4, 4-6, 6-4 and win her first Australian Open title. The 26-year-old avenged her loss to Sabalenka in the 2023 final, recovering from a break down in the deciding set to claim her second grand slam triumph.
Rybakina, the fifth seed, showed remarkable composure after trailing 0-3 and 30-30 on her serve in the final set. She raised her level to win five consecutive games, sealing victory with a confident service game. The match was a high-quality contest, marking the first three-setter in the women's event since the fourth round.
The Kazakhstani player has now solidified her place among the elite, returning to a career-high ranking of No. 3. Her win comes after she ended last season by winning the WTA Finals with a similarly commanding victory over Sabalenka. Despite setbacks including injury, illness, and the suspension of her coach Stefano Vukov, Rybakina has demonstrated she can consistently compete with the best.
Rybakina's victory confirms her as the in-form player in women's tennis. Known for her quiet persona, she drew on her inner grit to produce one of the great recoveries of her career, setting the tone from the first game and fighting fire with fire when needed. The title adds to her Wimbledon crown from 2022, ending a near three-year wait for a second major.
