Italy: Elena Rybakina, the reigning Wimbledon champion, staged a stunning comeback in the Italian Open semifinals on 19th May 2023. Trailing 4-1 in the second set, Rybakina fought back with remarkable resilience to outshine Jelena Ostapenko, securing her place in the tournament’s final showdown.
Elena Rybakina, the Kazakh player, delivered a sensational performance in the Italian Open semifinals. With a remarkable 6-2, 6-4 comeback, she secured her fourth major final appearance this season, following her previous triumphs at the Australian Open, Indian Wells, and Miami.
On 20th May 2023, Elena Rybakina will compete for the coveted trophy as she faces off against Anhelina Kalinina from Ukraine. Kalinina earned her spot in the final by defeating Russia’s Veronika Kudermetova in a hard-fought battle of 7-5, 5-7, 6-2, marking her second-ever WTA final appearance.
Amidst her triumph, the victorious player didn’t forget her country, which had experienced an invasion by Russia the previous year. Expressing her solidarity, she dedicated her victory to her nation as she advanced to the title match at the Foro Italico.
Following her rain-interrupted semifinal victory, Elena Rybakina will have to swiftly regroup for the upcoming final. Despite the match lasting just under one hour and forty-five minutes, Rybakina emerged victorious, capitalizing on Jelena Ostapenko’s 33 unforced errors.
Elena Rybakina secured her victory with a remarkable second-set fightback, clinching the win on her first match point. The decisive moment came when her opponent faltered, sending a volley into the net.
Acknowledging the talent of her opponent, Elena Rybakina expressed admiration for Anhelina Kalinina, emphasizing their friendship, as far as it can exist in the competitive world of tennis. Rybakina found satisfaction in her impressive turnaround during the second set, showcasing her ability to adapt and seize control of the match.