The Australian Open women’s final did not go according to the script on Saturday, with fifth-seeded Elena Rybakina taming the world No. And just as it seemed that Sabalenka will be able to get a vice-like grip on the match, Rybakina was egged on by her coach Stefano Vukov. The calmness that Rybakina showed changed to a steely resolve and she not only held serve, but raced to a 5-3 lead. And then, serving for the match, an ace on match point gave her the Australian Open title, her first at Melbourne Park and second overall, denying Sabalenka a three-peat Down Under. At this Australian Open, courtside coaching became a champion’s ally.

Source: The Telegraph February 01, 2026 06:10 UTC