Sabalenka Triumphs Over Rybakina in Thrilling Indian Wells Final

Aryna Sabalenka secured a hard-fought victory over Elena Rybakina in the final of the BNP Paribas Open at Indian Wells, California, prevailing 7-6(7), 6-4, 7-5 after a grueling three-set match. The win marks a successful defense of her 2025 title at the prestigious tournament.

Match Highlights

The first set was dominated by Rybakina, with a single break in the sixth game proving decisive. The 26-year-old Kazakhstani player was nearly flawless on serve, losing only five points in five service games to take the set 6-3.

Sabalenka responded strongly in the second set, earning an early break and weathering a brief counter-break from Rybakina. She secured a second break in the fourth game and held on to equalize the match, winning the set 6-3.

The deciding set was a rollercoaster of emotions. Sabalenka broke Rybakina in the third game and consolidated the break to lead 3-1. She then saved two break points in the eighth game to maintain a 5-3 advantage. Rybakina fought back, breaking Sabalenka to level the score at 5-5. A pivotal tenth game lasting over 12 minutes saw Rybakina save five break points before taking a 6-5 lead. The set ultimately went to a tie-break.

In the tie-break, both players battled fiercely, with Rybakina taking an early mini-break (4-3) and extending it to 5-3. Sabalenka fought back to 5-5, and Rybakina earned a match point, which Sabalenka saved with a cross-court backhand. Sabalenka prevailed in the tie-break, securing the victory.

Beyond the Court

The victory comes at a special time for Sabalenka, who recently welcomed a new puppy, Ash, and celebrated her engagement with partner Georgios Frangulis, complete with a large diamond ring. She will now turn her attention to the upcoming Miami Open, where she will defend her 2025 title.

Rybakina’s Recent Successes

Despite the loss, Elena Rybakina remains a force in women’s tennis. Currently ranked world No. 2 by the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) as of March 16, 2026, she has 12 WTA Tour-level singles titles, including the 2022 Wimbledon Championships and the 2026 Australian Open [1]. Rybakina is the first Kazakhstani player to win a major and reach the world’s top 10.

Sabalenka vs. Rybakina Head-to-Head

The match at Indian Wells added to the growing rivalry between Sabalenka and Rybakina. [3]

Last updated on March 16, 2026.