California: World number one Aryna Sabalenka produced a dramatic comeback to defeat rival Elena Rybakina and clinch her maiden title at the Indian Wells Open, gaining sweet revenge for her recent Grand Slam heartbreak.
Sabalenka battled from a set down to win 3–6, 6–3, 7–6 (8–6) in a gripping final that lasted more than two and a half hours in the California desert.
The Belarusian saved a championship point in the deciding tie-break before sealing the victory with a powerful service winner, ending a tense contest that highlighted the growing rivalry between the two players.
The triumph also served as redemption for Sabalenka after her defeat to Rybakina in the final of the Australian Open earlier this year. The Kazakh had also beaten Sabalenka in previous title matches, including the 2023 Indian Wells final, making this victory particularly satisfying for the world No.1.
Sabalenka looked set to close out the match earlier when she served for the title at 5–4 in the deciding set, but Rybakina broke back to force a dramatic tie-break. The Kazakh even held championship point at 6–5 before Sabalenka responded with a blistering backhand winner to keep her hopes alive.
Holding her nerve in the closing stages, Sabalenka won the final three points to finally secure the long-awaited Indian Wells crown.
It was her first tournament appearance since the Australian Open, and the 27-year-old capped what she described as an unforgettable week both on and off the court.
“What a week,” Sabalenka said after lifting the trophy. “Getting a puppy, getting engaged and winning a title – I will definitely remember it for the rest of my life.”
The victory marks Sabalenka’s 23rd career WTA Tour title and her second trophy of the season, further cementing her position at the top of the women’s game.
After falling short in her previous two Indian Wells finals, Sabalenka finally lifted the trophy — and did so by defeating the opponent who had caused her some of the toughest defeats of her career.
Source: BBC sports, Yahoo Sports
Discussion about this post