Aryna Sabalenka Triumphs Over Elena Rybakina to Claim Her First Title at Indian Wells
INDIAN WELLS — Aryna Sabalenka, currently ranked World No. 1, clinched her first title at the Indian Wells tournament by defeating Elena Rybakina 3-6, 6-3, 7-6 (6) in a thrilling final on Sunday.
The match unfolded under scorching temperatures that reached the 90s, adding to the intensity on the court. After a challenging start, Sabalenka fought back to claim the victory with a powerful serve that Rybakina could not return, sending the ball long.
At 27 years old, Sabalenka had a chance to secure the win earlier in the third set, but she was broken at 5-4. Rybakina even held a championship point during the tight tiebreaker, only to have Sabalenka respond with a stunning backhand winner, shifting the momentum.
This match marked the 16th encounter between the two athletes, with Sabalenka now leading their head-to-head record 9-7. Prior to Sunday, Rybakina had bested Sabalenka at the 2025 WTA Finals and the Australian Open earlier this year, as well as winning the 2023 Indian Wells final.
“What a day,” Sabalenka remarked following her victory.
In the men’s final, Daniil Medvedev is set to face Jannik Sinner, who has won eight of their last nine matchups.
