In a match that showcased her raw power and precision, Rybakina, last year’s Melbourne runner-up, fired 11 aces and 26 winners to cruise to a 6-1, 6-1 victory. The Kazakh sixth seed was in imperious form, with her only hiccup coming late in the first set when a string of unforced errors gifted Jones three break points. But Rybakina, never one to waver under pressure, responded in style—blasting four consecutive aces and sealing the set with a blistering forehand winner.
Elena Rybakina wasted no time making her mark at the Australian Open, dismantling local favorite Emerson Jones in just 53 minutes to storm into the second round.
This Australian Open marks a new chapter for Rybakina under the guidance of coach Goran Ivanisevic, the 2001 Wimbledon champion renowned for his serving prowess. When asked if they ever debated who boasts the better serve, Rybakina quipped, “Maybe I need to challenge him on the practice court—we’ll see.”
Off the court, Rybakina’s coaching situation has also been a talking point. She had hoped to work with her former coach Stefano Vukov in Melbourne, but the Croatian is under provisional suspension by the WTA pending an investigation into his conduct. Vukov has denied any wrongdoing, and Rybakina has reiterated that she never lodged a complaint.
For now, Rybakina’s focus remains firmly on her game. As a former Wimbledon champion, she is no stranger to the pressures of Grand Slam tennis. Her commanding first-round performance sends a clear signal to the rest of the field: she’s here to contend for the title.
With Ivanisevic’s expertise and her unyielding determination, Rybakina could well go one step further this year and claim her maiden Australian Open crown.
