MY ACCOUNT
Elena Rybakina is determined to enjoy herself after setting up a groundbreaking Wimbledon final against Ons Jabeur.
Rybakina had not won a single grass-court semi-final prior to Thursday’s match against Simona Halep, but she rose to the occasion in a stunning 6-3 6-3 win.
While the Kazakh said she was “quite nervous”, it did not show as she forged nine break point opportunities – including in each Halep service game of the first set – and faced just one.
Rybakina’s serve was similarly effective, with five aces and no double-faults; Halep had no aces and nine double-faults.
“It was really, really good,” the victor said. “Usually, I have ups and downs. But I think today I was mentally prepared, and I did everything I could, and it was an amazing match.”
Now, attention turns towards facing Jabeur, with both women playing their first major finals.
It will be the first time in the Open Era the women’s singles final at the All England Club will be contested between two players who have not played a championship match at a grand slam before.
The stakes are only getting higher for Rybakina, but she is relishing the opportunity.
“I think it’s going to be a great match,” she said. “I’m going to try to do my best, but I’m going to enjoy it. I’ve already done a lot; it’s time to enjoy the final.”
