The
Instagram account of the China Open shared a video comparing Elena Rybakina and
Aryna Sabalenka.
One of the
standout matchups from the last WTA 1000 tournament of the year occurred in the
quarterfinals. World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka faced off against World No. 5 Elena
Rybakina, reminiscent of their meeting in the Australian Open final, although
this time the victory went to the Kazakh, 7-5, 6-2.
In one hour
and 36 minutes, Rybakina capitalized on her strong serve, firing 12 aces
compared to Sabalenka's 4. She also maintained a 62% first-serve percentage,
winning 77% of those points, and a 50% success rate on the second serve. In
contrast, her opponent had a lower 50% first-serve percentage, winning 74% of
those points, and only a 38% success rate on the second serve.
The video
shown before the match displayed a split-screen sequence, featuring Rybakina
and Sabalenka training side by side. The footage captured them as they arrived
at the training court, practiced their forehands and backhands, and even
demonstrated both of them approaching the net to work on short shots.
The caption
accompanying the video reads, "Sabalenka or Rybakina? 👀 Who wins tonight’s quarterfinal?
#ChinaOpen."
Rybakina
and Sabalenka have a head-to-head record that favors the Belarusian at 4-2, with
Sabalenka winning the first four meetings, all of them going to three sets: in
2019 at Wuhan, then twice in 2021 at Abu Dhabi and Wimbledon, as well as the
final of the 2023 Aussie Open, which gave Sabalenka her first Grand Slam title
to date.
However, the
former Wimbledon champion has closed the gap in their head-to-head encounters,
winning in straight sets in their last two meetings: the final of Indian Wells
and the recent quarterfinals in Beijing. Nevertheless, Rybakina eventually fell
to Liudmila Samsonova in straight sets.
Both
athletes will once again be in the same tournament at the WTA Finals in Cancun,
starting from October 30, which brings together the top eight players of the
year.
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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