A video of
Elena Rybakina relaxing by playing ping pong before the start of the US Open
has been circulating on social media.
The
Kazakhstani tennis player is just a few days away from making her debut at the
US Open. With the draw already sorted out, Rybakina will face world No. 37
Marta Kostyuk in her opening match.
This will
only be Rybakina's fifth appearance at the US Open, with her best result being
a third-round appearance in 2021. During that run, she defeated Aliaksandra
Sasnovich and Caroline Garcia, but ultimately lost to former world No. 1 Simona
Halep.
The US Open
has historically been the Grand Slam where Rybakina has had the least success,
with only a 43% win rate in matches. In 2022, shortly after winning Wimbledon,
she had a disappointing start at the US Open, losing to Clara Burel in the
first round.
As she
settles into Flushing Meadows and with some uncertainties about her physical
condition, the video of Rybakina relaxing and playing ping pong adds a glimpse
into her preparations for the tournament.
“Elena Rybakina
in suit, yesterday evening, at a party of her hotel. Playing ping pong #USOpen”
Read also
Former
Australian Open finalist is once again entering a Grand Slam with uncertainties
about her physical condition, as she recently had to retire from the Cincinnati
Open in the round of 16 while playing against Jasmine Paolini with a score of
6-4, 2-5.
During this
year's Wimbledon, Elena Rybakina faced a similar situation. She withdrew from
the Eastbourne Open before her debut and arrived at SW19 with doubts. However,
on the court, she displayed strong physical form and managed to reach the
semifinals before losing to Ons Jabeur.
In the
first round of the US Open, currently ranked world No. 4, Rybakina will face a
tough challenge against Marta Kostyuk. The head-to-head record between them is
currently 1-0 in favor of Kostyuk, with their previous encounter being in the
round of 16 at the Adelaide International 1.
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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