WATCH: Elena Rybakina pulls off a flawless Roger Federer-esque volley shot against Aryna Sabalenka to seal her victory at Brisbane

Elena Rybakina showed off some brilliant shots to win her first title of the season against World No. 2 Aryna Sabalenka. 

WATCH: Elena Rybakina pulls off a flawless Roger Federer-esque volley shot against Aryna Sabalenka to seal her victory at Brisbane

Elena Rybakina and Roger Federer (Via Open Source)

The Brisbane International came to an end for the women as Elena Rybakina produced a masterclass of tennis to defeat the top seed, Aryna Sabalenka. 

The Kazakhstani displayed a wide range of shots that kept her on top of her game at the finals. However, out of the many shots, her drop shot was the one that stole the show early on.

YouTube video

Ryabkina, who was seeded at No. 2, broke early on her opponent’s serve and continued that momentum, applying immense pressure on Sabalenka. 

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At the start of the third game of the first set, Rybakina channeled her inner Roger Federer to produce a splendid drop shot to win the point and continue the lead.

Upon heading towards the net during the point, the Kazakhstani unleashed a drop shot that took her opponent by surprise.

The shot straight out of the legend’s playbook ensured Rybakina stayed on top of the game and eventually won the first set without letting Sabalenka steal a break.

From the get-go, the Kazakhstani stuck to her plans and did not let her opponent get away with any points. This calmness saw her through the match and got her the first title of the season.

Rybakina admits that it is always tough to play against Aryna Sabalenka

Elena Rybakina started her 2024 campaign with a mighty win over World No. 2 Aryna Sabalenka in Brisbane. 

Elena Rybakina
Elena Rybakina (via The Guardian)

Both players were up against each other in a rematch of the Australian Open, but this time, the script was written differently. 

Their last encounter went in favor of the Belarusian, who won the 2023 Australian Open. However, this time around, a dominant Rybakina saw off the mighty Sabalenka in a quick match where she lost only 3 games. 

What started to be an early break turned out to be a quick set win at finals and in no time, the 24-year-old continued her dominance in the second set to win her 6th Career title. 

Despite the score, it's always tough to play against you.
Admitted Rybakina during the trophy presentation ceremony.

The 2022 Wimbledon champion continued her form in Australia and aims for her second Grand Slam after a win over the defending champion. Sabalenka, on the other hand, will be looking to brush off the defeat and focus on the main deal—her title defense at the Australian Open.

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