Eisenhower Cup shake-up: Elena Rybakina to partner Taylor Fritz as Aryna Sabalenka withdraws

Elena Rybakina will step in for Aryna Sabalenka at the traditional Eisenhower Cup, the mixed doubles exhibition event held before Indian Wells. The 2022 Wimbledon champion joins the prestigious tournament, partnering with Taylor Fritz in an eight-team draw that includes Iga Swiatek, Ben Shelton, Paula Badosa, and Stefanos Tsitsipas.

Sabalenka’s participation was one of the main highlights of the event, given her status as the world No. 2 and a five-time Grand Slam champion. However, she ultimately decided to withdraw from the exhibition despite having previously committed, with Rybakina emerging as an ideal replacement.

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Sabalenka is likely looking to stay focused ahead of her next WTA 1000 event following a disappointing Middle East swing, where she managed just one win and suffered two early exits.

Elena Rybakina at 2025 Abu Dhabi Open. 

Exciting line-up for the Eisenhower Cup

The event will take place on Tuesday, 4 March, featuring several of the Tour’s top stars and exciting mixed doubles pairings. Iga Swiatek will once again team up with Hubert Hurkacz, just as in previous editions of the United Cup.

The American duos include Emma Navarro and Ben Shelton, last year's champions, as well as 2025 Australian Open winner Madison Keys partnering with Tommy Paul.

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The tournament will also provide an opportunity to see some well-known couples competing side by side. Katie Boulter will play alongside her fiance Alex de Minaur, while Spanish star Paula Badosa pairs up with her boyfriend Stefanos Tsitsipas.

Eisenhower Cup Teams

1. Elena Rybakina & Taylor Fritz.

2. Madison Keys & Tommy Paul.

3. Casper Ruud & Maria Sakkari.

4. Emma Navarro & Ben Shelton.

5. Paula Badosa & Stefanos Tsitsipas.

6. Alex de Minaur & Katie Boulter.

7. Iga Swiatek & Hubi Hurkacz.

8. Jasmine Paolini & Lorenzo Musetti.

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