Sabalenka and Rybakina reignite grand slam rivalry

Three years ago, as Aryna Sabalenka and Elena Rybakina served up an instant classic of an Australian Open final, it was difficult to imagine how two players who had produced such a dramatic contest of high-level ball-striking would not simply go on to dominate the hunt for grand slam titles.

- JAMIE BRAIDWOOD

Instead, it proved to be a breakthrough for the champion, in Sabalenka, and a turning point in the opposite direction for the beaten finalist, in Rybakina. While Sabalenka became a fourThe consistency that has marked Sabalenka’s ascent to become the game’s undisputed No 1 was lacking from Rybakina, the Russian-born 2022 Wimbledon winner who represents Kazakhstan. Frustrating spells of illness and injury followed, along with the suspension of her long-term coach, the Croatian Stefano Vukov, amid an investigation into potential breaches of the WTA’s Code of Conduct and allegations of “abusive behaviour” towards her.

Vukov, who denied any wrongdoing, appealed against his suspension and his ban from the tour was lifted in August. Rybakina spoke up in his defence while he was suspended and highlighted his importance now that she has returned to the Australian Open final. “I think it's a big help, because of course he knows me the best,” she said. “With his advice on the court during the matches, it definitely makes a difference. Same as my other team members.”

Since Wimbledon last year, no other player has won as many matches as Rybakina, whose late-season surge carried her not only into the WTA Finals as a last-minute qualifier in Riyadh in November, but to the biggest single payday in women's tennis history as she defeated Sabalenka to win the prize of £3.98m.

With that victory, the 26-year-old Rybakina reminded everyone that she is a contender for more grand slam titles. And so, three years on from their Melbourne classic, Sabalenka and Rybakina will meet again after they both powered into tomorrow's final.