Elena Rybakina Upsets Aryna Sabalenka to Win 2026 Australian Open Women's Title

Elena Rybakina produced a powerful performance to defeat world number one Aryna Sabalenka in a thrilling three-set final to clinch the Australian Open Women's Singles Title at Rod Laver Arena. The fifth seed battled past the Belarusian star 6-4, 4-6, 6-4 to secure her second Grand Slam crown, following her Wimbledon success in 2022.

Rybakina, 26, made an assertive start by breaking Sabalenka in the opening game and closed the first set in just 37 minutes. The match was marked by intense rallies and sharp net play, with Rybakina eventually pulling clear to seal the victory.

This win places Rybakina among an elite group of players in the Open Era who have won their first two major titles on grass and hard court. She joins the likes of Amelie Mauresmo, Lindsay Davenport, Maria Sharapova, Martina Hingis, Venus Williams, and Naomi Osaka.

Sabalenka's response in the final showcased her resilience, making it a memorable championship match.