Anticipated Rematch at Melbourne Park
The stage is set for a compelling showdown at the 2026 Australian Open women's singles final, as top seed Aryna Sabalenka and fifth seed Elena Rybakina prepare to face each other in a highly anticipated rematch. The championship match will take place on Saturday, January 31, at Rod Laver Arena in Melbourne Park, Australia, with play scheduled to begin at 6:30 PM AEDT (7:30 PM local time). This final marks a repeat of the 2023 Australian Open women's singles final, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the contest.
Paths to the Final
Both athletes have demonstrated dominant form throughout the tournament, reaching the final without dropping a single set.
- Aryna Sabalenka, the reigning world No. 1, has continued her impressive run at Melbourne Park, securing her fourth consecutive Australian Open final appearance. Her journey to the final included a straight-sets victory over Elina Svitolina in the semi-finals. Sabalenka is now aiming for her third Australian Open title.
- Elena Rybakina, the 2022 Wimbledon champion, battled past Jessica Pegula in the semi-finals to earn her spot in the final. This marks Rybakina's second Australian Open final, and she is seeking her maiden title at the event.
A Rivalry Renewed
The upcoming final reignites a significant rivalry between the two powerful players. Their last Grand Slam final encounter was at the 2023 Australian Open, where Sabalenka claimed her first major singles title by defeating Rybakina in a thrilling three-set match with a score of 4-6, 6-3, 6-4. Since then, their rivalry has continued, with Rybakina notably defeating Sabalenka in the final of the 2025 WTA Finals.
Sabalenka's consistent performance at the Australian Open has seen her lose only four of 57 sets played at the event over the last four years. A victory for Sabalenka would place her in elite company, potentially tying Martina Hingis and Martina Navratilova with a third Australian Open title in four editions. Rybakina, meanwhile, will be looking to secure her second Grand Slam title overall and exact revenge for her previous loss to Sabalenka on this very stage.
12 Comments
Michelangelo
I wish other players could break through. It's getting boring seeing the same two.
Raphael
This is going to be an epic final! Can't wait to see these two powerhouses battle it out again.
Michelangelo
This rematch is definitely a big draw for many tennis fans, and it showcases their consistent high level of play. However, for those looking for a fresh narrative, it might feel a little repetitive after their last encounter.
Raphael
It's fantastic that both players reached the final without dropping a set, showing their incredible form. Yet, it also makes you wonder if the draw was as challenging as it could have been for them.
Michelangelo
Their power game is certainly impressive and makes for exciting rallies. But sometimes I miss the strategic variety we used to see more often from other top players.
ZmeeLove
Don't care, women's tennis is just not as exciting as it used to be.
Habibi
Sabalenka vs. Rybakina again? Yes please! Best rivalry in women's tennis right now.
Bermudez
Two dominant players, no dropped sets. This final promises incredible tennis!
Mariposa
Sabalenka always wins, this final is a foregone conclusion. No real suspense here.
Muchacha
Honestly, this rivalry is overhyped. Their matches are often too one-sided.
Bella Ciao
Sabalenka for her third title! What an incredible run at the Australian Open.
ZmeeLove
While the rivalry between Sabalenka and Rybakina is undeniably compelling, it highlights a potential lack of depth in the women's tour right now. We need more contenders to challenge them.