Sabalenka Powers to Indian Wells Final, Awaits Rybakina or Svitolina
Published March 14, 2026 | 247sports.news
World No. 1 Dominates Noskova in Straight Sets
Aryna Sabalenka, the world’s top-ranked women’s tennis player, advanced to the Indian Wells final with a commanding 6-3, 6-4 victory over Linda Noskova on Friday. The Belarusian star is now one win away from securing her 23rd singles title on the WTA Tour.
Sabalenka’s performance showcased her power and consistency, proving too much for the 14th-seeded Noskova, who was aiming for her second semifinal appearance at a WTA 1000 event.
Seeking First Indian Wells Title
This marks Sabalenka’s third appearance in the Indian Wells final in the last four years. Despite her previous successes in reaching the championship match, she has yet to claim the title, falling to Mirra Andreeva last year and Elena Rybakina in 2023.
“I just want to focus, if I make it to the final, I want to make sure that I get it, I get the trophy,”
Sabalenka said to press afterwards.
She acknowledged past opportunities missed in previous finals, stating, It felt like even though players were playing incredible tennis in those finals, I perceive like I had so many opportunities that I didn’t use.
Rybakina or Svitolina Await in Championship Match
Sabalenka will face either Elena Rybakina or Elina Svitolina in the final. Both matchups present a familiar challenge, as they were both rematches from the 2026 Australian Open.
Rybakina previously defeated Sabalenka in the 2023 Indian Wells final and also edged her out in the recent Australian Open final.
Impressive Season Continues for Sabalenka
Sabalenka has had a stellar season so far, with a record of 16-1. Her only loss came in the final of the Australian Open. She is the first World No. 1 to reach the Indian Wells final in consecutive years since the tournament’s inception in 1989.
Throughout the tournament, Sabalenka displayed dominance, winning matches against Himeno Sakatsume, Jaqueline Cristian, Naomi Osaka and Victory Mboko before her semifinal victory over Noskova.
Key Stats from the Semifinal
- Score: 6-3, 6-4
- Winners: 37
- Unforced Errors: 21
- First Serve Percentage Won: 69%
FAQ
Who did Aryna Sabalenka defeat to reach the final?
Aryna Sabalenka defeated Linda Noskova 6-3, 6-4.
Who will Sabalenka play in the final?
Sabalenka will play either Elena Rybakina or Elina Svitolina.
Has Sabalenka ever won Indian Wells?
No, Sabalenka has reached the final three times but has not yet won the title.