Rybakina’s Ascent to World No. 2

Elena Rybakina is making waves on the WTA Tour, recently securing a 6-1, 7-6 (4) victory over Jessica Pegula at the BNP Paribas Open. This win will elevate Rybakina to a career-high No. 2 in the PIF WTA Rankings next Monday, marking the first time in nearly four years that Iga Swiatek will not hold one of the top two spots.

Rybakina has demonstrated a remarkable streak, winning 11 consecutive matches against Top 10 opponents – a feat achieved by only four other players since 2000: Venus Williams, Serena Williams, Justine Henin, and Iga Swiatek.

Sabalenka and Rybakina: A Budding Rivalry

Currently, Aryna Sabalenka holds the world No. 1 ranking with 10,675 points, followed by Iga Swiatek (7,588 points) and now Rybakina (7,253 points). The two have already faced off in a major final this year, with Rybakina prevailing over Sabalenka in three sets at the Australian Open.

“The biggest one is that Rybakina is back,” said Martina Navratilova. “Winning the Australian Open, she played the best tennis when it mattered most. She was holding her nerves better than Sabalenka in the final and won in three.”

Martina Navratilova, via WTA website

Sabalenka has not competed since her defeat at the Australian Open, withdrawing from WTA 1000 events in Doha and Dubai.

Looking Ahead to Indian Wells

The semifinals at Indian Wells feature Sabalenka, Rybakina, Linda Noskova, and Elina Svitolina. Rybakina’s return to action after a brief illness is being closely watched.

“She was ill after Australia, which happens a lot. It’s normal to get sick after a major. More often than not, I got sick after Wimbledon and the US Open because the body just goes.”

Martina Navratilova, via WTA website

Navratilova added, After skipping Abu Dhabi, I’m hoping her immune system is okay. She won three matches in Doha and Abu Dhabi, so let’s see how she’s feeling in the desert.

FAQ

• Who is currently ranked No. 1 in women’s tennis? Aryna Sabalenka.
• Who defeated Sabalenka in the Australian Open final? Elena Rybakina.
• What is Rybakina’s new ranking after Indian Wells? No. 2.