The 2026 Australian Open women’s singles semi-finals have produced an impressive final four, combining strength, experience and consistency at Melbourne Park. This year’s lineup consists of world number one Aryna Sabalenka, veteran Elina Svitolina, hard court powerhouse Elena Rybakina and in-form Jessica Pegula.
In the upper half of the draw, Sabalenka was domineering throughout the fortnight. She made it to the semi-finals with a straight sets win over 18-year-old Iva Jovicending with a dominant 6-3, 6-0 score that showcased her explosive ground game and serving power. The top seed is seeking her third Australian Open title in four years, having lifted the trophy in 2023 and 2024 before finishing runner-up last season.
Standing in her way is Elina Svitolina, who performed one of the best performances of the tournament by dismantling third seed Coco Gauff 6-1, 6-2 in less than an hour. After returning from maternity leave, Svitolina rediscovered her rhythm and reached the semifinals on a 10-match winning streak. Still in pursuit of her first Grand Slam title, her tactical discipline and consistency pose a serious challenge to Sabalenko.
In the bottom half, Elena Rybakina enters the semi-finals in threatening form after ending world number one Iga Swiatek’s quest for a career Grand Slam with a commanding 7-5, 6-1 quarter-final victory. Her booming serve and aggressive shooting have made her one of the tournament’s most dangerous hardcourt players as she aims for a second Grand Slam final after finishing second in Melbourne in 2023.
Jessica Pegula stands between Rybakina and a place in the final. The American reached her first Australian Open semi-final without dropping a set, showing poise and tactical intelligence in a straight-sets win over Amanda Anisimova, rallying from a second-set deficit to win in a thrilling tiebreak.
When to watch the Australian Open women’s singles semi-finals?
The semi-final matches will not start before 14:00 IST. The first match will feature Aryna Sabalenka and Elina Svitolina, followed by a clash between Jessica Pegula and Elena Rybakina.
Where to watch the Australian Open women’s singles semi-finals?
Sony Sports Network has the broadcast rights for the Australian Open. Live streaming of the women’s singles semifinals will be available on the Sony LIV app.
Singles semi-finals at the Australian Open Head-to-head
Aryna Sabalenka vs Elina Svitolina
Matches 6, Aryna Sabalenka – 5, Elina Svitolina – 1
Jessica Pegula vs Elena Rybakina
Matches 6, Jessica Pegula – 3, Elena Rybakina – 3
Australian Open Women’s Singles Semi-Final Schedule?
Women’s Singles – Semifinals (Rod Laver Arena) Night Session | From 14:00 IST
Match 1
Aryna Sabalenka (1) vs Elina Svitolina (12)
match 2
Jessica Pegula (6) vs Elena Rybakina (5)
– The end
Issued by:
sabyasachi chowdhury
Published on:
January 28, 2026
