The world has a way of coming full circle, and three years later, Aryna Sabalenka and Elena Rybakina are living proof. As recently as 2023, before she lifted her first Grand Slam, Sabalenkova was still finding her place in the spotlight, while Rybakina, fresh off her 2022 Wimbledon triumph, carried the confidence of a major champion.
But on that fateful day at Melbourne Park, it was Sabalenka’s heart and sand that shone brightest. Down a set and under immense pressure, the Belarusian fought back to defeat Rybakina and etch her name on the Australian Open trophy for the first time – a moment that changed her career forever.
Since then, Sabalenkova has become a powerhouse on hard court, claiming two more titles at the Australian Open and two at the US Open. Rybakina triumphed in other tournaments, but the elusive Grand Slam slipped through her fingers. After three years, the stage is set for them to meet again, each carrying the weight of past battles and a desire for glory.
Sabalenka can enter as a favorite, with her fourth Australian Open final in sight but Rybakin’s fire is undeniable. This Saturday, Melbourne Park will be roaring as two warriors go head-to-head once again, each chasing not just a title but a story to be remembered for years to come.
CAN SABALENKA PARK ASIDE 2025 HEARTBREAK?
Last year, Aryna Sabalenka was tipped for a third Australian Open title in a row, but a shock defeat by Madison Keys those dreams came crashing down. For a player who set new standards for success on hard courts, the loss came as a shock – unexpected and bitter.
Fast forward to 2025 and Sabalenka has a chance to rewrite the script. She was relentless in the ongoing tournament, yet did not lose a set. Her toughest test came in the second round against Austria’s Anastasia Potapova, where she battled through a couple of ties but otherwise left her opponents little room to breathe.
Sabalenka’s form is almost flawless – she finished as world number one in 2025, won the title in Brisbane and is now on the verge of her third Australian Open crown. Belarus is not just chasing a trophy; he chases redemption, determination shining through every move as he tries to turn last year’s heartbreak into a historic triumph.
SERVE QUEEN RYBAKINA, GREAT THREAT
When it comes to service games, few players have been as dominant as Elena Rybakina. The Kazakh star hit 41 aces in the tournament – a full 14 more than runner-up Xinyu Wang, who hit 27 in four matches. By comparison, Aryna Sabalenka managed 22.
Rybakina also won 74 percent of her first-serve points, rarely faltering when it mattered most. Sabalenkova will need to watch her serve closely if she hopes to take control of the match. When Rybakina is in rhythm, Sabalenkova is constantly chasing the ball and trying to dictate the game.
In the end, the submission battle could prove decisive in determining who lifts the trophy. Rybaka’s basic firepower combined with her deadly delivery makes her a formidable opponent. Sabalenka will need all the skill, composure and strategy to face it.
While Sabalenka enters Saturday’s final as slight favourites, Rybaka’s relentless form promises a roller-coaster final – a clash sure to keep everyone on the edge of their seats.
Head-to-head matches between Elena Rybakina and Aryna Sabalenkova
Overall
Matches – 14, Aryna Sabalenka – 8, Elena Rybakina – 6
At the Grand Slams
Matches – 2, Aryna Sabalenka – 2, Elena Rybakina – 0
Elena Rybakina vs Aryna Sabalenka Road to the final
Aryna Sabalenka
- First round: beat Thas Rakotomanga Rajaonah (FRA) – 6-4, 6-1
- Second round: beat Zhuo Bai (CHN) – 6-3, 6-1
- Third round: beat Anastasia Potapova (AUT) – 7-6(4), 7-6 (7)
- Fourth round: beat Victoria Mboko (CAN) – 6-1, 7-6 (1)
- Quarterfinals: beat Iva Jovic (USA) – 6:3, 6:0
- Semi-Final: beat Elina Svitolina (UKR) – 6-2, 6-3
Elena Rybakina
- First round: beat Kaja Juvan (SLO) – 6-4, 6-3
- Second round: beat Varvara Gracheva (FRA) – 7-5, 6-2
- Third round: defeated Tereza Valentová (CZE) – 6-2, 6-3
- Fourth round: beat Elise Mertens (BEL) – 6-1, 6-3
- Quarterfinals: beat Igo Swiatek (POL) – 7:5, 6:1
- Semi-finals: beat Jessica Pegula (USA) – 6-3, 7-6 (7)
When to watch the Australian Open women’s singles final?
The final between Aryna Sabalenkova and Elena Rybakina will not start until 13:00 IST.
Where to watch the Australian Open women’s singles final?
Sony Sports Network has the broadcast rights for the Australian Open. Live streaming of the women’s singles final will be available on the Sony LIV app.
– The end
Issued by:
Debodinna Chakraborty
Published on:
January 31, 2026
