Rybakina Overcomes Pegula in Miami, Continuing Dominant Form
Elena Rybakina advanced to the Miami Open semi-finals with a hard-fought 2-6, 6-3, 6-4 victory over Jessica Pegula on Wednesday, March 25, 2026. The win marked Rybakina’s third WTA semi-final appearance of the 2026 season and extended her winning streak to a tour-leading 21 matches.
Pegula’s Strong Start and Rybakina’s Comeback
Pegula started strongly, winning the first set 2-6. However, Rybakina battled back, securing a 6-3 victory in the second set and ultimately closing out the match with a 6-4 win in the deciding set. The match lasted two hours and 15 minutes.
Despite a shaky start marked by 12 unforced errors in the first set compared to Pegula’s two, Rybakina adjusted her game and gained momentum. She broke Pegula early in the final set, taking a 3-1 lead and ultimately securing the win.
Rybakina’s Career-Best Form
Rybakina’s success in Miami follows her triumphs at the 2025 WTA Finals and the 2026 Australian Open. She acknowledged a shift in her approach, stating, “Last year I was trying to find my game, I was struggling a little bit. But now we’re doing a good job with the team, we have a plan for each match and I’m trying to follow.” She added that adapting during matches is crucial, but her current strategy is working well.
Rybakina reached a career-high ranking of No. 2 during the tournament and will face the winner of the quarter-final match between Aryna Sabalenka and Hailey Baptiste.
Frustration for Pegula
This defeat marks Pegula’s fifth consecutive loss to Rybakina. Despite a promising start and creating opportunities, Pegula struggled to capitalize, particularly against Rybakina’s powerful serve. Pegula acknowledged her frustration, stating she is challenging both Rybakina and Sabalenka but needs to find a way to convert opportunities into wins.
Pegula noted, “I’m putting myself right there…I’m giving myself the chances and the opportunities, I think I have elevated my game, I’ve become a better player. I am definitely challenging them, both of them. That’s kind of all I can ask of myself and hopefully some of the wins will reach along.”
Analysts suggest that the firepower of Rybakina and Sabalenka presents a significant challenge to Pegula’s game, which relies on consistent ball striking.
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