Kazakhstan’s Elena Rybakina closed out her season with a strong win over top-ranked Aryna Sabalenka, marking her second victory over the world number year this year.
In their last group-stage match at the WTA Finals in Riyadh, the 2022 Wimbledon champion secured a shock 6-4, 3-6, 6-1 win to inflict just Aryna Sabalenka’s second defeat in her last 24 matches.
Despite her win, the match was virtually a dead-rubber, with Elena Rybakina already eliminated and Sabalenka already set as the group winner.
The 25-year-old came into the WTA Finals as an underdog, having played just three times since Wimbledon and after spending time recovering from the back injury that forced her out of the US Open.
Sabalenka, by contrast, led their head-to-head series with six wins in their nine encounters and has been cruising through the end of 2024 with three titles in as many months.
Additionally, Rybakina recently made a notable coaching change, appointing Goran Ivanisevic after a turbulent season with injuries and illness.
Elena Rybakina reveals main goal for 2025
Rybakina has endured a challenging second half of the season, grappling with injuries, illness, and a coaching change.
Despite these setbacks, she has managed to finish the year securely within the top 10, a testament to her resilience and early-season success.
The also claimed three WTA 500 titles this year, showcasing her capability to compete at the highest level even amid obstacles.
Now, looking ahead to 2025, she’s focused on elevating her game and reaching her ultimate ambitions.
Reflecting on her aspirations, Rybakina shared: “My goals are to win Slams, definitely. And the main goal is to become world number one, one day… so hopefully next year.”
Elena Rybakina enjoys a positive end to a difficult year
Rybakina is closing out a challenging year on a high note, with her new coaching appointment marking a promising new chapter.
Partnering with Ivanisevic, who brings extensive Grand Slam-winning experience after stints with Novak Djokovic and Marin Cilic, seems like the right move to elevate her game.
Their shared ambitions are clear, setting an aligned focus for the coming season. Rybakina’s recent win over the new world number one is a powerful boost to her confidence on hard courts, a surface where she thrives.
This momentum could position her well for a strong start at the 2025 Australian Open, where she was a finalist in 2023.
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