Elena Rybakina addressed the atmosphere at the WTA Finals after the event has received much controversy.
World number one Aryna Sabalenka closed out her group-stage matches at the WTA Finals with a shock three-set loss to Elena Rybakina, who defeated the Belarusian for the second time this year.
The 2022 Wimbledon champion took down Sabalenka 6-4, 3-6, 6-1, handing the Belarusian just her second loss in her last 24 matches.
It is the first time an elite women’s tennis event has been held in Saudi Arabia and has attracted scrutiny from fans and pundits alike.
The WTA were forced to issue a statement after criticism arose over their lack of attendance, with footage from day two showing just 400 spectators in a near-empty stadium.
Elena Rybakina speaks out on WTA Finals atmosphere amid attendance drama
After battling through a challenging season marked by injuries and illness, she entered the Finals having only played three matches since her Wimbledon semi-final run.
Rybakina’s recent appointment of Goran Ivanisevic as her new coach promises an exciting new phase, yet her season’s end has been anything but smooth.
The 25-year-old spoke about her experience at the WTA Finals amid swirling criticism over the low attendance and poor atmosphere.
Tim Henman previously labelled the Finals’ environment as “disappointing” and “frustrating,” given the empty seats.
Rybakina, however, chose to stay positive, telling Sky Sports: “It was a tough match, and I’m really happy I managed to win. It’s nice to finish the year with a win against the number one I think every match I’ve played here is a little bit better. It’s not easy after a break, but today was good.
“I’m really enjoying the atmosphere,” she concluded, in keeping with Coco Gauff’s positive assessment of the crowd after her own win over Iga Swiatek.
The WTA Finals is so often disrespected
Unfortunately, the WTA Finals has often been marred by logistical and planning issues.
Last year’s event in Cancun, for instance, took place in a venue that was hastily built, and the week was plagued by heavy rain and delays.
This year’s low attendance has again cast a shadow over what should be a highlight on the women’s tour.
In contrast, the ATP Finals has consistently offered a polished, high-energy experience that draws large crowds.
For fans and players alike, it’s disappointing that the WTA’s year-end championship continues to present as undervalued.
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