"A couch, in front of the TV, two dogs around": Elena Rybakina says happy place is back at home due to gruelling tennis schedule

Thursday, 12 October 2023 at 22:00

Elena Rybakina talked about her happy place in an interview with Tennis Channel. We also investigate what is still at stake for her at the end of 2023.

Interview

The 2022 Wimbledon champion participated in an interview with former tennis player Michael Kosta on Tennis Channel.

During the interview (check on Twitter at the end of this article), Elena Rybakina took a moment to discuss things beyond tennis.
She mentioned that, despite spending very little time at her home, it really is her most relaxing place.
The tennis player appeared comfortable on the striking set as she was being interviewed:

"Describe home to me—is it big fluffy couches, is it dogs, is it cooking… what is it?," Kosta asked her.

"I guess at home. Since I’m never at home, it will be home… I think it’s a couch, in front of the TV, two dogs around, & super calm," Rybakina responded.

Rybakina's current form at the end 2023

World No. 5 recently had an intense week at the China Open. She almost reached the final. She managed to get consecutive victories over top players like Zheng Qinwen, Tatjana Maria, Mirra Andreeva, and world No.1 Aryna Sabalenka.

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However, Rybakina couldn't advance to the final.
She was defeated in the semifinals by Liudmila Samsonova with a score of 7-6(7), 6-3 in favor of the Russian.

Elena Rybakina chasing points in WTA Finals

Now, the player from Kazakshtan and born in Russia, is gearing up for her last WTA tournament of the year.
Rybakina will be making her debut at the WTA Finals. This event will commence on October 29th and run through November 5th.

The WTA Finals feature a round-robin phase followed by semifinals and the final. The tournament will gather the year's top eight players.
They present a great opportunity for Rybakina to earn more ranking points.

Rybakina might be able to finish the year strongly. She is less than 100 WTA points behind the third-place player, Coco Gauff. She holds a lead of more than 1000 points over Jessica Pegula. Jessica Pegula is the fifth-placed player at the moment in the rankings.

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Elena Rybakina says her happy place is at home: “I guess at home. Since I’m never at home, it will be home… I think it’s a couch, in front of the TV, two dogs around, & super calm.” ❤️ (via Tennis Channel)

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11:28 AM · Oct 12, 2023

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Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist

Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.

His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.

In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.

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