Rybakina Outlasts Sabalenka in Three-Set Thriller to Win Australian Open Title

Melbourne, Jan 2026 : Fifth seed Elena Rybakina produced a display of composure, power, and resilience to claim the Australian Open women’s singles title, defeating world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka 6-4, 4-6, 6-4 in a pulsating final at Melbourne Park on Saturday. The victory not only earned Rybakina her second Grand Slam crown but also served as sweet revenge for her defeat to Sabalenka in the 2023 championship match.

Rybakina began the final with intent, breaking Sabalenka’s serve in the opening game and immediately putting pressure on the top seed. Her powerful groundstrokes and accurate serving allowed her to control the rallies, and she maintained her advantage to close out the first set 6-4. Sabalenka, however, responded with the fighting spirit that has defined her rise to the top of women’s tennis, raising her intensity and leveling the match by taking the second set 6-4.

The decider initially appeared to swing firmly in Sabalenka’s favour as the Belarusian surged to a commanding 3-0 lead. Her aggressive returns and trademark roars echoed around Rod Laver Arena, energising the crowd and putting Rybakina under sustained pressure. Yet, just when the momentum seemed to have shifted decisively, Rybakina mounted a remarkable comeback.

Displaying remarkable mental strength, the Kazakhstan representative reeled off five consecutive games, turning the match on its head. Her serve proved crucial during this stretch, delivering pace and precision at key moments. Rybakina then calmly served out the match, sealing the championship with an emphatic ace on her first match point to secure a 6-4 win in the deciding set.

This triumph marks Rybakina’s second Grand Slam title, following her memorable Wimbledon victory in 2022. After losing the Australian Open final in 2023, her form had dipped, and she had not returned to a Grand Slam final until this year. Her resurgence gathered momentum late last season, particularly after defeating Sabalenka at the WTA Finals in November. Entering the Australian Open final, Rybakina had recorded the most match wins on tour since Wimbledon and extended her exceptional run to 20 victories in her last 21 matches.

Born in Moscow and representing Kazakhstan, Rybakina celebrated her achievement by unfurling her nation’s flag on court as she paraded the trophy, soaking in the applause from a packed stadium.

“It’s hard to find words right now,” Rybakina said after the match. “I want to congratulate Aryna on her amazing results over the last couple of years. I hope we can play many more finals together. It was truly a battle.”

She also expressed gratitude to her coaching team, including Stefano Vukov, who was recognised by tournament organisers as the champion’s coach. “We went through a lot together. I’m really glad we achieved this result, and hopefully we can keep going strong this year,” she added.

For Sabalenka, the defeat was another disappointment in Melbourne, following her loss in last year’s final to Madison Keys. “Let’s hope next year brings a better result for me,” she said with a smile.

Rybakina’s aggressive approach ultimately proved decisive. She struck six aces and showed exceptional composure under pressure, saving six of the breakpoint chances she faced. While Sabalenka fought hard, Rybakina’s calm demeanour and powerful shot-making carried her to a memorable victory on one of tennis’ biggest stages.

Final Score:
Elena Rybakina defeated Aryna Sabalenka 6-4, 4-6, 6-4