World No. 5 Elena Rybakina outdueled top seed Aryna Sabalenka to win her first Australian Open title in a riveting three-set final at Rod Laver Arena on Saturday, January 31. Under the closed roof, the Kazakh player triumphed 6-4, 4-6, 6-4 in two hours and 18 minutes, capping a tournament run defined by power, precision, and unwavering resilience.

Rybakina’s victory marked her second Grand Slam title and provided a measure of revenge after her heartbreaking loss to Sabalenka in the 2023 final. In front of a captivated crowd, she sealed the championship with an ace, celebrating with a restrained fist pump as she etched her name into Australian Open history.

Power and Precision define Rybakina’s play

From the start, Rybakina displayed formidable firepower, combining strong serving with aggressive baseline play. She broke Sabalenka in the opening game of the first set and built a 4-2 lead, signaling her intent. Her ability to blend sheer strength with deft touch—including well-timed drop shots—kept the Belarussian top seed off balance.

Despite Rybakina closing out the first set in 37 minutes, she remained cautious. Memories of her 2023 final loss fueled her focus, as she knew Sabalenka would mount a strong comeback. Sabalenka did respond in the second set, racing to a 3-0 lead in the decider, showcasing her athleticism and court coverage. However, Rybakina’s composure under pressure allowed her to string together five consecutive games, turning the match in her favor and holding serve to clinch the win.

A memorable comeback and historic triumph

The final was a testament to Rybakina’s mental toughness and strategic play. She absorbed the early aggression from Sabalenka while maintaining control during critical points. The Kazakh champion’s ability to dig deep and respond decisively underlined her readiness to claim a major title on tennis’ biggest stages.

Sabalenka, who had won 26 of her last 27 matches at Melbourne Park, was unable to convert key break points in the third set. While she fought valiantly, Rybakina’s balance of power and patience proved decisive. With this victory, Rybakina joins a select group of Grand Slam champions, enhancing her reputation as one of the sport’s rising forces.

The match highlighted not only athletic excellence but also a dramatic narrative of perseverance and tactical brilliance. Rybakina’s journey from early setbacks in the deciding set to ultimate triumph will be remembered as one of the defining moments of the 2026 Australian Open.