Miami, March 28, 2024, The Europe Today: In a thrilling semi-final showdown at the Miami Open, fourth seed Elena Rybakina showcased her resilience and determination to overcome Belarusian powerhouse Victoria Azarenka in a gripping three-set battle. Despite facing a second-set setback, Rybakina rallied back to clinch victory with a hard-fought 6-4, 0-6, 7-6(2) triumph, securing her ticket to the tournament’s final.
Rybakina, the highest seed remaining in the women’s draw, demonstrated her prowess on the court by winning nearly 82% of her first-serve points. Despite encountering challenges in converting break-point opportunities, she displayed unwavering resolve throughout the match, ultimately emerging victorious after two hours and 33 minutes of intense competition.
Reflecting on her hard-fought victory, Rybakina expressed her gratitude for the tough battle and acknowledged the formidable challenge posed by Azarenka. “It was such a tough battle,” Rybakina remarked during her on-court interview. “I knew I was going to fight until the end, and actually, that’s what I did.”
The match unfolded as a tale of momentum shifts, with Rybakina dominating the opening set before Azarenka staged a remarkable comeback in the second set, breaking Rybakina’s serve three times to force a decisive third set.
Undeterred by the setback, Rybakina regrouped and showcased her resilience in the final set, breaking Azarenka’s serve to gain a crucial advantage. Despite facing tense moments, including relinquishing a lead late in the set, Rybakina held her nerve to force a tiebreak, ultimately clinching victory with a composed display.
With her victory over Azarenka, Rybakina advances to her fourth final of the year and will face either American Danielle Collins or Russian 14th seed Ekaterina Alexandrova in the Miami Open final.
As Rybakina prepares to vie for the prestigious title, her remarkable journey at the Miami Open exemplifies her unwavering determination and exceptional talent on the tennis court.
