Elena Rybakina halts Pegula’s resurgence, advances to Australian final

Elena Rybakina arranged a rematch of the 2023 Australian Open final after the No. 5 seed defeated No. 6 Jessica Pegula 6-3, 7-6 (7) in the second semifinal, which was largely one-sided until Rybakina reached match point.

Rybakina failed to convert three match points on Pegula’s serve and was broken twice while attempting to serve for the match.

During the tiebreak, Pegula had two set points but could not capitalize, and Rybakina ultimately secured the victory 29 minutes after her initial match point.

“It was an epic second set,” Rybakina stated. “I’m really glad I managed to win it. Jessica fought to the end. I’m just super happy to be in the final.”

Rybakina will compete against top-seeded Aryna Sabalenka for the championship. Sabalenka dominated Elina Svitolina 6-2, 6-3 to come within one win of her third Australian Open title in four years.

Sabalenka’s first Australian Open title was a comeback win against Rybakina, with the Belarusian triumphing 4-6, 6-3, 6-4.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Source: espn.com