No successful back-to-back title defense since 1991: Elena Rybakina aims for rare Indian Wells feat
WTASaturday, 02 March 2024 at 21:30
Defending
champion of Indian Wells, Elena Rybakina, could achieve a feat that hasn't
occurred in the last 30 years. The world No. 4 will be one of the favorites in
the California desert, where no player has successfully defended the title
since 1991.
Rybakina
has two titles in 2024 and a record of 17-3, with more victories than any other
player this year. Only Iga Swiatek (14-2) and Jelena Ostapenko (16-4) come
close to Rybakina's impressive campaign, and she ranks second in the WTA Race
despite an early exit in the Australian Open's second round.
wIncredible campaign in 2023
Undoubtedly,
Rybakina's journey at the 2023 Indian Wells was more than challenging to secure
her first WTA 1000 title. Along the way, she faced former champions Paula
Badosa and Iga Swiatek (the reigning No. 1 at that time). In the final, she
overcame Aryna Sabalenka, seeking redemption from the Australian Open, where
she had been defeated by the Belarusian in the title match a few weeks earlier.
The 2022
Wimbledon champion was also the standout player of last year's Sunshine Double,
reaching the final of the Miami Open, although she fell to Petra Kvitova (who
won't be present this year due to her pregnancy).
Rybakina's quest to repeat Indian Wells glory
Only once
has a female player successfully defended the Indian Wells title consecutively,
and that feat belongs to the legendary Martina Navratilova in 1991. This
accomplishment occurred in the early years of the tournament, with victories
over Helena Sukova (1990) and Monica Seles (1991).
While
consecutive victories are rare, several players have claimed the Indian Wells
title twice. Notable names on this list include Mary Joe Fernandez, Lindsay
Davenport, Serena Williams, Kim Clijsters, Daniela Hantuchova, Maria Sharapova,
and the most recent addition, Victoria Azarenka (2016).
Nevertheless,
Rybakina faces a formidable challenge in her quest. She currently trails the
world No. 3, Coco Gauff, by a mere 120 points, keeping the competition intense.
However, she remains distant from the current leaders, Sabalenka and Swiatek,
adding to the complexity of her mission.
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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