Elena Rybakina Enters China Open as World No. 1 and Top Seed
Elena Rybakina enters the China Open in Beijing as both the World No. 1 and the tournament’s top seed simultaneously for the first time in her career. Fresh off her third Grand Slam title at the US Open, where she secured the top ranking and locked in her spot at the WTA Finals at Indian Wells, Rybakina faces Alina Charaeva of Armenia in Saturday’s second round. Her immediate objective is maintaining the No. 1 ranking through the end of the season, with a long-term ambition of winning Roland Garros to complete a Career Slam.
“I mean, now I’m No. 1, which is great,” Rybakina said during her media day press conference on Thursday. “Still it’s not end of the season. I would like to push and finish at No. 1. Who knows what’s going to happen. It’s a lot of good players, a lot of tough opponents. Anything can change. That’s the goal for now.”
Whirlwind Media Tour and Presidential Receptions in Bratislava and Astana
The weeks following her US Open victory on September 12 involved a demanding travel schedule and celebrations across multiple continents. Rybakina embarked on a New York City media tour the day after her triumph, appearing on CBS Mornings and NBC’s Today before traveling to Europe and Asia. In Bratislava, Slovakia, where she frequently trains, President Peter Pellegrini welcomed her at the Presidential Palace. She then traveled to Kazakhstan, where President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev hosted her at the Akorda Residence in Astana. Tokayev awarded her Kazakhstan’s Order of Barys, third degree, recognizing her sporting achievements and contributions to promoting Kazakhstani tennis. She is the first player representing Kazakhstan to achieve a World No. 1 ranking.
“Well, since it’s been a lot of traveling also, I passed by Bratislava and then I went to Kazakhstan,” Rybakina said. “I did some commitments which I had to do. Unfortunately I didn’t manage to also do different stuff which I wanted — with the kids, some clinics. I spent very nice time in the house resting, relaxing. It’s been a good time.”
Managing a Lingering Foot Injury in Beijing
Settled in Beijing, Rybakina has balanced light practice sessions with rest and recovery to manage a lingering foot issue. She acknowledged during Thursday’s press conference that she felt the discomfort slightly during her first training session at the venue. Charaeva advanced to face Rybakina after defeating Yuliia Starodubtseva 5-7, 7-5, 6-2 in the opening round. Rybakina’s previous results at the China Open include a semifinal appearance in 2023 and a third-round finish in 2025.
“Since I was resting, my foot was a bit better,” Rybakina said. “Now I’m back on the court, I still feel here and there. Again, I try to push myself, see how far I can go in this tournament. Mentally, I think that now I’m better. It’s been a lot of things after US Open definitely. I’m ready.”
Frequently Asked Questions About Rybakina’s Ranking and Schedule
What did Elena Rybakina say about her mentality as the new World No. 1?
Rybakina stated that she does not have a specific answer for what the mentality of a top ranked player should be because she just became No. 1. She emphasized that enjoying the moment with the support of her team is the most important priority.
Who is Elena Rybakina playing in her opening match in Beijing?
She plays Alina Charaeva of Armenia in Saturday’s second round. Charaeva earned her spot by defeating Yuliia Starodubtseva 5-7, 7-5, 6-2 in the first round.
What awards and honors did Rybakina receive following her US Open win?
President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev awarded Rybakina Kazakhstan’s Order of Barys, third degree, during a reception at the Akorda Residence in Astana. She was also received by Slovakian President Peter Pellegrini at the Presidential Palace in Bratislava.
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