Rybakina thanks Kazakhstan after Australian Open triumph over Sabalenka

Melbourne: Two-time Grand Slam champion Elena Rybakina expressed heartfelt gratitude to her supporters from Kazakhstan after defeating Aryna Sabalenka in a thrilling Australian Open women’s singles final at the Rod Laver Arena on Saturday.

Rybakina held her nerve in a high-quality contest, winning 6-4, 4-6, 6-4 in 2 hours and 18 minutes, avenging her loss to the Belarusian in the 2023 final and securing another major title in Melbourne.

During the trophy presentation, Rybakina thanked her sponsors, the Kazakhstan Tennis Federation, and its president Bulat Utemuratov for their continued support. She also acknowledged the presence of several Kazakh players at the tournament, expressing hope for the nation’s continued progress in tennis.

Born in Moscow, Rybakina switched allegiance to Kazakhstan in 2018 due to financial backing from the federation, a move that proved pivotal in launching her professional career. Meanwhile, Kazakhstan’s Anna Danilina and Aleksandra Krunic finished runners-up in the women’s doubles final, losing to Zhang Shuai and Elise Mertens.

 Naseem Healthcare to host free dental camp with specialist services and major discounts 

Join the Rehaab Online WhatsApp group for timely updates  (Click here to join the group)