Elena Rybakina delivered a thunderous display to defeat favourite Aryna Sabalenka and win a maiden Australian Open title on Saturday.
Rybakina returned to the site of her 2023 defeat to complete an impressive 6‑4 4‑6 6-4 win and capture her second major trophy after Wimbledon 2022.
The Moscow-born Kazakh capped a fortnight of relentless efficiency, largely flying under the radar and adding the Daphne Akhurst Memorial Cup to a sparkling resume which also includes the WTA Finals crown she won by stunning Sabalenka in 2025.
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“It’s an incredible achievement,” said the 26-year-old, who will rise to number three in the world rankings on Monday behind Sabalenka and Iga Swiatek.
Rybakina added: “I’m super happy and proud. It was a really tough battle. I didn’t expect to turn it around. I got some opportunities.
“Aryna is a very tough opponent but I’m super happy that this time I’m holding the trophy.”
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