Power hitters dominate in Melbourne
Both players enter final undefeated in sets
Elena Rybakina and Aryna Sabalenka booked their spots in the Australian Open final with dominant semi-final performances at Rod Laver Arena on Thursday. The two power hitters will face off in Saturday’s highly anticipated showdown, marking the 15th meeting between these in-form stars.
Sabalenka Cruises Past Svitolina
World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka advanced with a 6-2, 6-3 victory over Elina Svitolina in 76 minutes. Sabalenka, now in her 75th week as the top-ranked player, showcased her trademark heavy hitting and strategic court positioning.
Despite Svitolina’s transformation from defensive baseliner to aggressive attacker, she struggled to cope with Sabalenka’s firepower. The Belarusian’s first-serve average speed of 175 kph outmatched her opponent, helping her break in the fourth game and dominate the first set. After briefly trailing 0-2 in the second set, Sabalenka surged to win six of the next seven games, becoming the first player since Martina Hingis to reach four consecutive Australian Open finals.
“Reaching four finals in a row is incredible, but the job is not done yet,” Sabalenka said, aiming for her third Melbourne title and fifth Grand Slam overall. Her 29 winners and only 15 unforced errors reflected an efficient, aggressive performance, with a tactical focus on targeting Svitolina’s backhand.
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Rybakina Edges Pegula in Tight Battle
World No. 5 Elena Rybakina defeated Jessica Pegula 6-3, 7-6(7) in a 100-minute semi-final. Like Sabalenka, Rybakina hit hard from the baseline, averaging a first-serve speed of 178 kph, matching Pegula’s top serves.
Rybakina started strong, winning the opening three games. Pegula fought back in the second set, forcing a tense tiebreak after breaking serve multiple times. In the decisive tiebreak, Rybakina turned the tables from 6-7 down, finishing with a forced error, an ace, and a backhand winner to secure her place in the final.
“I’m proud that no matter the situation, I stayed there. I was fighting for each point,” Rybakina said after the match. Her 31 winners against 29 unforced errors highlighted her resilience and precision under pressure.
Power and Form Set the Stage for a Classic
Both players enter the final without dropping a set, setting up a repeat of the 2023 Australian Open final, where Sabalenka defeated Rybakina 4-6, 6-3, 6-4. With their heavy hitting and consistent form, Saturday’s final promises another electrifying battle at Melbourne Park.