New York – Elena Rybakina showed remarkable resilience at the U.S. Open, advancing to the quarterfinals despite recent fitness concerns. The Kazakh’s ankle injury and a seven‑day break from competition did not stop her from delivering a dominant performance against two‑time champion Naomi Osaka in the fourth round.
From injury doubts to a strong New York showing
Rybakina arrived in New York having withdrawn from the Cincinnati Open quarterfinals after a match with Iga Swiatek. She had not played a competitive match for a week and admitted her preparation was “not that great” and that she could not train fully in the gym. Nevertheless, she entered the U.S. Open as the second seed and has not dropped a set en route to the last eight.
“It’s amazing progress,” Rybakina told reporters after her victory over Osaka. “We didn’t even know if I was going to be able to play or not. I have a great team and a good doctor on the phone all the time.” She added that the match against Osaka was “one of the best matches I played” despite not calling every match “amazing.”
Next challenge: Olympic champion Zheng Qinwen
The win sets up a quarterfinal clash with Olympic champion Zheng Qinwen. A victory would not only move Rybakina into the semifinals but also allow her to leapfrog Aryna Sabalenka in the world rankings, putting her within reach of the No. 1 spot as early as next week.
Rybakina expressed a growing affection for the tournament and the city, saying, “I like New York and it’s an amazing city. I really love the crowd here and enjoy playing in stadiums like this.” She noted that her time in the city may be limited to two or three weeks before the schedule becomes too demanding.
What the win means for the rankings
Should Rybakina defeat Zheng, she will overtake Sabalenka and claim the top ranking, a milestone she has pursued since breaking into the elite tier. The ranking shift would reflect her consistent performance on hard courts and her ability to rebound quickly from injury.
Analysts note that Rybakina’s aggressive baseline play and powerful serve have been key factors in her resurgence. Her ability to maintain composure under pressure, especially after a period of limited preparation, underscores the depth of her talent and the quality of her support team.
Looking ahead
Fans can anticipate a high‑stakes quarterfinal that could reshape the women’s draw. Rybakina’s journey illustrates the importance of perseverance, top‑level medical support, and a dedicated coaching staff—values that resonate with families and communities that champion hard work and determination.
The U.S. Open continues to deliver compelling storylines, and Rybakina’s performance adds another chapter to the tournament’s rich history. As the competition moves forward, her quest for the world No. 1 ranking remains a focal point for tennis enthusiasts nationwide.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
