Key Highlights
- Elena Rybakina defeated Iga Swiatek to secure her place in the knockout stages of the WTA Finals.
- Amanda Anisimova overcame Madison Keys to advance and set up a match against Swiatek for a spot in the semi-finals.
- Rybakina’s win was her first over Swiatek in 19 months, snapping a four-match losing streak.
Tennis Stars Battle It Out at WTA Finals
Elena Rybakina delivered an impressive performance against top seed Iga Swiatek in the latest round of matches at the WTA Finals. The Kazakh tennis star, ranked 6th in the world, emerged victorious with a commanding 3-6, 6-1, and 6-0 win. This victory not only secured Rybakina’s spot in the knockout stages but also marked her first triumph over Swiatek since October 2024.
Rybakina’s Dominance Over Swiatek
Rybakina faced a tough challenge from the world number two, Iga Swiatek. Despite an early setback in the opening set where she was broken twice and lost by three games to one, Rybakina quickly adjusted her game plan. The Kazakh player demonstrated superior tactical play in the subsequent sets, breaking Swiatek’s serve multiple times.
“Mentally, I am happy that I stayed focused,” Rybakina stated after the match. “I got some confidence in the second set and everything was going my way. Hopefully, I will play like that through the whole tournament.”
Anisimova’s Comeback Victory
Amanda Anisimova put on a remarkable display to defeat Madison Keys. The American player trailed 2-0 down in the second set but staged an incredible comeback, winning six of the next seven games. Her tenacity and resilience paid off as she secured a 4-6, 6-3, and 6-2 victory.
Anisimova’s win sets up a decisive match against Swiatek for the final spot in the semi-finals. “I felt like I was playing better than her,” Anisimova said after the match. “I just had to keep fighting and believe in myself.”
WTA Finals Prize Money
The leading eight women’s players in singles and doubles are competing at the WTA Finals, which is being held in Riyadh. The tournament offers a total prize purse of £12 million ($15.5 million), making it one of the most lucrative tournaments in women’s tennis.
Future Implications
Rybakina’s victory over Swiatek will boost her confidence and set high expectations for future matches. Meanwhile, Anisimova’s comeback victory showcases her mental fortitude and highlights the unpredictable nature of professional tennis. Both players are now eyeing a semi-final spot, while Swiatek faces a tough challenge in her next match against the American player.
