Rybakina Battles Past Pegula in Nerve-Shredding Semi, Faces Sabalenka Next

Elena Rybakina advanced to the Australian Open 2026 final after defeating Jessica Pegula 6-3, 7-6 (7) in the second semi-final at Rod Laver Arena on Thursday, January 29.

The win takes Rybakina into her second Australian Open final, where she will face world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka. Rybakina made a strong start, breaking Pegula early to open up a 3-0 lead in the first set. The American struggled to settle, allowing Rybakina to maintain control and close out the set without difficulty.

The second set proved more competitive. Rybakina appeared on course for a straight-forward victory before Pegula staged a late comeback, breaking serve to stay in the match. Rybakina responded immediately to regain the advantage, but Pegula continued to fight, breaking once more to force a tie-break.

Both players were locked in a tight battle in the tie-break, trading points under pressure. Rybakina held her nerve in the closing stages to seal the match and book her place in the final.

Sabalenka books fourth straight final

Rybakina will meet Aryna Sabalenka in the final on January 31, a repeat of the 2023 Australian Open title match, which Sabalenka won in three sets. The world No. 5 will be aiming to reverse that result against the top seed.

Earlier, Sabalenka secured her fourth successive Australian Open final with a 6-2, 6-3 victory over Elina Svitolina. The world No. 1 completed the match in one hour and 16 minutes at Rod Laver Arena.