Here’s a bold statement: Elena Rybakina’s journey to the WTA Finals in Riyadh hangs by a thread, and every match feels like a high-stakes battle. But here’s where it gets controversial—is her relentless pursuit of victory sustainable, or is she pushing herself too hard? On Thursday in Ningbo, Rybakina delivered a masterclass in resilience, outlasting Dayana Yastremska in a grueling 2-hour, 48-minute marathon that ended 4-6, 6-7 (6), 6-3. This wasn’t just a win; it was a testament to her mental and physical fortitude, sealed with her 10th ace of the match. And this is the part most people miss—despite the humid conditions and the physical toll, Rybakina’s focus never wavered. 'It was a long day,' she admitted post-match. 'The humidity was challenging, but I’m thrilled to have pulled through. Thank you all for your incredible support.'
This victory propels Rybakina into the Ningbo quarterfinals for the first time, where she’ll face the red-hot Ajla Tomljanovic. Speaking of Tomljanovic, her own journey has been nothing short of dramatic—she recently staged a stunning comeback, overturning a 5-0 deficit to defeat Sonmez in Ningbo. But here’s the question that divides fans: Can Rybakina’s power game outmaneuver Tomljanovic’s momentum? Or will Tomljanovic’s recent form prove too much to handle? As Rybakina fights to secure one of the final two spots at the WTA Finals, every match is a must-win. Her performance in Ningbo so far suggests she’s up for the challenge, but the road ahead is far from easy. What do you think—is Rybakina a lock for Riyadh, or is the pressure too much? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments!
